A Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma in the Maxilla: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Malignant neoplasms that affect the lymphatic system are called lymphoma and include a wide range of diseases that originate from B cells. Lymphoma is the second common neoplasm of the head and neck and includes Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. This article reports the case of a primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in the oral cavity. He attended Sari Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic because of a gradual growth of a mass in the posterior region of the maxilla. The patient was primarily diagnosed with periodontal abscess but misdiagnosis led to treatment failure and disease progression. After attending our clinic, immunohistochemical examination was performed which revealed a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The patient underwent surgery and treatment with CHOP regimen (cyclophosphamide, daunorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone). The development of lymphoma in the oral cavity is very rare and its symptoms such as pain, swollen gums, and loose teeth are similar to other dental problems and may lead to diagnostic problems. The present report draws attention to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in differential diagnosis of soft and hard tissues of the oral lesions that can lead to appropriate treatment and better prognosis.

Keywords

• diffuse large b-cell lymphoma
• maxilla
• non-hodgkin lymphoma