Epidemiology and subtype distribution of lymphoid neoplasms from a single institution in Lebanon between 2010 and 2014

ABSTRACT

The 2008 WHO classification is the gold standard for classifying hematopoietic neoplasms. Our study reviewed 1256 cases between the years 2010 and 2014. It aimed to establish a descriptive status of lymphoma cases in Lebanon. Hodgkin lymphomas [HL] accounted for 21% of all cases whereas non-Hodgkin lymphomas [NHL] accounted for 79%. In NHL, mature B-cell neoplasms accounted for 85% and mature T-cell neoplasms accounted for 9%. For mature B-cell neoplasms, the majority of cases [48%] were diffuse large B-cell lymphomas [DLBCL]. Within T-cell lymphomas, anaplastic lymphoma [ALCL 40%] was the most prevalent. The distribution within subtypes confirmed the findings of two previous Lebanese studies. Our figures of HL are higher than in Eastern and Western countries. This could probably be related to EBV infection among other etiologies. Our NHL figures are close to the Western world. Westernization of the way of life of the Lebanese society could explain this result: