An unusual cause of large bowel obstruction: are we aware of this?

Abstract

Primary lymphomas of the colon account for 0.5% of all primary colon malignancies. Burkitt’s lymphoma is a B-cell lymphoma with aggressive clinical behavior. Herein, we describe a case of a male patient who presented with signs of large bowel obstruction, underwent surgery and found to suffer from Burkitt’s lymphoma of the ileocecal region. The histopathological examination was indicative for Burkitt’s lymphoma. To the best of our insight this is one of the few reported cases of such type of lymphoma in an adult patient presenting with bowel obstruction. Burkitt’s lymphoma is a rare malignancy in adults affecting gastrointestinal tract. It has a high proliferation potential and can rapidly progress to advanced disease. Early diagnosis is necessary to prevent complications and improve overall prognosis.

Keywords

• burkitt lymphoma
• lymphoma
• obstruction
• surgery