Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma mimicking the cervical epidural hematoma in a patient who underwent spinal manipulation therapy: a case report and literature review

Abstract

The diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) mimicking an epidural hematoma in the cervical spine is an extremely unique case. We present a case of a 42-year-old man, who presented to the emergency department with symptoms of tetraparesis after a session of spinal manipulation therapy. magnetic resonance imaging visualized a lesion located at C3–C7 causing spinal cord compression with surrounding soft tissue edema suggesting epidural hematoma. The patient was admitted to the Neurosurgery Department and emergent laminectomy was performed. Intraoperatively, an infiltrating tumor was found, which was partially resected and sent for post-op histopathological examination, determining it to be a DLBCL. Our work aims to increase awareness of such cases, which may make it easier to make the proper diagnosis.