ABSTRACT
Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is an uncommon and aggressive type of mature B cell lymphoma rarely involving gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Here, we describe a case of PBL involving the colon in HIV/Epstein-Barr virus negative immunocompetent patient who presented with anaemia and weight loss but no significant GI symptoms. It emphasises that even in the absence of classical risk factors, one should consider possibility of this condition as this is potentially curable. Also, we would like to highlight the diagnostic and treatment challenges of such an aggressive lymphoma in a frail elderly patient with multiple comorbidities.
Subject(s)
Epstein-Barr Virus Infections , Lymphoma, B-Cell , Plasmablastic Lymphoma , Aged , Herpesvirus 4, Human , Humans , Plasmablastic Lymphoma/diagnosis , Plasmablastic Lymphoma/drug therapy , Risk FactorsABSTRACT
The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically challenged care for cancer patients, especially those with active treatment who represent a vulnerable population for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Aggressive lymphoid neoplasms, such as diffuse large B cell lymphoma and high-grade B cell lymphoma, need to be treated without delay in order to get the best disease outcome. Because of that, our clinical practice was changed to minimise the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection while continuing haematological treatment. In this report, we analyse the management of front-line therapy in 18 patients during the COVID-19 outbreak, as well as the results of the implemented measures in their outcome.