RESUMO
Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is a heterogeneous disease with a variety of chromosomal abnormalities contributing to differences in management. While it is known that Double Hit Lymphomas (DHL) warrant more aggressive chemotherapy regimens, debate remains on how to treat Double Expresser Lymphomas (DEL). We present a case of a DEL treated with an aggressive regimen of 2 alternating cycles of R-CODOX-M (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and methotrexate) and R-IVAC (rituximab, ifosfamide, etoposide and high dose cytarabine). The regimen resulted in a significant response to treatment with marked reduction in tumor size and avidity, and an acceptable side effect profile. There was, however, residual metabolic activity on repeat PET CT scan. After consolidation with 36 Grey radiotherapy, a PET CT demonstrated a complete metabolic response. Debate remains regarding treatment approaches in DEL. Our case supports the categorization of DEL alongside DHL as resistant lymphomas requiring a more aggressive regimen than standard therapy.
RESUMO
Diagnosing culture-proven endophthalmitis is complicated by the insufficient yield of intraocular samples and the variety of etiologies which mimic true endophthalmitis. In cases of impending vision loss where vitreous biopsy cannot provide a definitive diagnosis, transvitreal retinochoroidal biopsy can be an effective next step. Our case is a 48-year-old male with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia that presented with counting fingers vision, redness, and tearing of the left eye. Exam showed cell and flare with hypopyon as well as dense vitritis. The patient underwent diagnostic pars plana vitrectomy and vitreous culture was negative at the time. Flow cytometry demonstrated no malignant cells. However, the patient's vision and mental status continued to clinically decline despite being started on intravitreal and systemic antibiotic and antifungal therapy. Neuroimaging revealed rim-enhancing brain lesions. Transvitreal retinochoroidal biopsy was performed in an elevated area of the retina. The biopsy helped rule out malignancy and showed acute-angle, septate, branching hyphae characteristic of Aspergillus fumigatus. Ultimately, the vitreous biopsy, cultures, and a biopsy from the left frontal lobe brain abscess all confirmed this diagnosis as well. Transvitreal retinochoroidal biopsy can play a role in the diagnosis of a case of posterior uveitis and can be particularly effective in diagnosing a fungal endophthalmitis.