Primary Hodgkin Lymphoma of the Stomach – a Case Report

Overview

A case of a 69-year-old male with a one-month history or recurrent attacks of GI bleeding, secondary anemic syndrome and epigastric pain is reported. Endoscopic examination revealed a tumorous lesion suspicious of malignancy. Neither lymphadenopathy nor any other tumorous lesion was identified by extensive clinical examination.

In the biopsy specimens there was ulcerated gastric mucosa with an infiltration by lymphoid cells, predominantly of mature T-cell type. Atypical large cells with large nuclei with prominent nucleoli were dispersed among the mature lymphocytes. These atypical cells were both mono- and binucleated (Hodgkin and RS cells). Both cell types revealed immunohistochemically membranous and dot-like perinuclear positivity of CD30 and CD15 antigens.

Based on morphologic features and immunohistochemical findings, a diagnosis of primary gastric Hodgkin lymphoma was established. Diagnostic approach, as well as differential diagnosis of primary Hodgkin lymphoma in this extremely rare location, are discussed.

Key words:
Hodgkin lymphoma – primary gastric lymphoma – extranodal – immunohistochemistry