Primary Diffuse large B-cell Lymphoma of the colon presenting as Idiopathic thrombocytopenia : A case report

Abstract

Introduction Primary lymphoma of the colon and rectum is an uncommon form of cancer comprising less than 0.5% of all colorectal tumors combined. Typically, extra nodal lymphomas manifest in the gastrointestinal tract, with non – Hodgkin lymphoma being the most frequent subtype and the stomach being the most common location. Case presentation 70 year old female with medical history of osteoarthritis and osteoporosis was evaluated for bilateral leg rash and thrombocytopenia. Eventual work up revealed cecal mass but inconclusive findings on colonoscopy. She underwent hemicolectomy due to persistent thrombocytopenia with histopathology positive for primary Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma (DLBCL). She underwent chemotherapy with complete resolution of her mass and lymphadenopathy. Conclusion We are presenting a rare case of Non - Hodgkin lymphoma in the colon. This disease can show up with unclear symptoms, so it’s important to use different types of imaging and pathology tests to identify the specific type of lymphoma. The main treatment for this type of cancer involves using chemotherapy and radiation therapy.