Extranodal Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Rare Presentation Involving the Pancreas

Abstract

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a cancer of the immune system, and accounts for 90% of all lymphomas. When lymphoma is discovered outside of the immune system, it is considered extranodal lymphoma. Any organ can be the primary site of NHL, with the gastrointestinal tract being the most common site of involvement. This case study explores the sonographic discovery of an uncommon presentation of NHL with an extranodal mass originating from the pancreatic body and tail, and further extending into the splenic hilum.

Extranodal Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma Involving the Pancreas: A Rare Presentation

“…Lymphoma is a malignancy of the lymphatic system, which includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and bone marrow [ 2 ]. Lymphomas are broadly classified into two types: NHL, which accounts for 90% of cases, and Hodgkin, which makes up 10%.…”

“…NHL originates from B-cells or T-cells [ 1 ]. While NHL usually arises from the lymph nodes, it can also develop in extranodal sites, which include the stomach, skin, lungs, and, infrequently, the pancreas [ 2 ]. Peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) is a subtype of NHL and constitutes a rare and heterogeneous group of lymphoid malignancies that arise from mature or precursor T-cells.…”