Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma Mimicking Ulceroproliferative Lesion

Abstract

Introduction: Oropharynx contains abundance of lymphoid tissue, particularly in the palatine and lingual tonsils which forms the anterolateral components of Waldeyers ring. Lymphomas arising in the oropharynx are almost exclusively Non Hodgkins lymphoma and arise in lymphoid tissue.
Methods: A case of 69 year old male with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma. Oropharynx, discussing clinical features, radiological and histopathological findings and management.
Discussion: Majority of the patients with Non Hodgkins Lymphoma presents with neck swellings, even though infections and inflammatory conditions can also lead to lymphadenopathy, with available modalities of investigations along with clinical examination, early diagnosis and treatment can be helpful to save life.
Results: A case of diffuse large B Cell Lymphoma with presenting complaints of neck swelling, odynophagia and dysphagia, mimicking oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma on clinical examination. Biopsy taken from the lesion showed diffuse large B Cell lymphoma. Patient was started on chemotherapy, but was unable to save life due to poor prognosis.
Conclusion: Non Hodgkins Lymphoma of Oropharynx can mimic Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Better patient awareness and early detection might have reduced the mortality. DLBCL has a poor prognosis.