Clinically unsuspected primary hepatic mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma collision with an intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: A case report and literature review

Primary hepatic mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma: a case report and literature review

Objective

To investigate the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, imaging and pathological features, and treatment methods of primary hepatic lymphoma (PHL).

Case presentation

A 61-year-old male with a history of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection presented to the hospital complaining of abdominal pain. Preoperative abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed a mass in the right lobe of the liver, accompanied by an elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level. Consequently, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was initially suspected. Following a comprehensive multidisciplinary consultation, the patient underwent an anatomical hepatectomy. Histopathological examination post-surgery confirmed the diagnosis of primary hepatic mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. The patient received chemotherapy as an adjunct to surgical treatment. During the five-year follow-up period, there was no evidence of tumor recurrence.

Conclusion

Primary hepatic MALT lymphoma is infrequently encountered in clinical practice. Its clinical and radiological presentations are often nonspecific, making the pathological evaluation the definitive diagnostic tool. Surgical resection, in conjunction with chemotherapy, remains the cornerstone of management for this condition. The prognosis for most patients is favorable.

Primary hepatopancreatobiliary lymphoma: Pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management

Primary hepatopancreatobiliary lymphoma (PHPBL) is extremely rare, which is defined as a lympho-proliferative disease confined to the hepatobiliary system and pancreas without any involvement of lymph nodes, bone marrow, or other organs. The clinical and imaging manifestations of PHPBL are variable and non-special, which are akin to those of tumors of the hepatobiliary and pancreatic systems. The overall prognosis and management of PHPBL differ from those of other tumors in the hepatobiliary system and pancreas. Proper diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for improving clinical outcomes. Due to its rarity, the optimal treatment has not been issued. However, combination chemotherapy is considered as a standard treatment for them. This review provides an overview of the pathogenesis, diagnosis, pathology, and management of PHPBL and offers clinicians the diagnosis and management schedule for PHPBL.