Necrosis and massive perforation of the small intestine in the course of lymphoma: a case report

Abstract

Necrosis and perforation of the small intestine of non-vascular origin are uncommon. Single cases have been described occurring in patients with blood and lymphatic malignant neoplasms. We present the case of necrosis and massive perforation of part of the small intestine in a patient diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), prior to commencement of therapy. At admission, the patient had typical symptoms and signs of a diffused peritonitis. Intraoperatively, faecal content was found in the peritoneal cavity and necrosis with a massive perforation of approximately 10 cm of the terminal ileum. Resection of the involved fragment of intestine was performed, followed by closing of the distal stump of the ileum and end ileostomy. The post-operative course was uneventful and the patient was moved to the haematologic department for further treatment of the lymphoma.