Abstract
Primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) globally, while primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL) is a rare subtype that may lead to central airway obstruction by compressing or invading the airways. Prompt management of airway obstruction is crucial, as severe cases can be life-threatening if left untreated. This study reports the case of a 27-year-old man with chronic cough, weight loss, and computed tomography (CT) of the chest revealing a large anterior mediastinal tumor with an extension into the neck and left lung causing airway compression and complete left lung collapse who was found to have PMBCL. The aim of this case report is to show that, in some cases of malignant central airway obstruction, the treatment approach should be based primarily on treating the underlying cause instead of procedural intervention, depending on clinical presentation and history of response to therapy. We highlight the treatment strategy of primary therapy for DLBCL to address central airway obstruction rather than surgical or bronchoscopic intervention.
Overview
- The study reports a case of a 27-year-old man diagnosed with primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBCL) showing a large anterior mediastinal tumor causing airway compression and left lung collapse.
- The patient presented with chronic cough, weight loss, and CT of the chest revealing the tumor.
- The primary objective of the study is to highlight the treatment strategy of primary therapy for DLBCL to address central airway obstruction instead of surgical or bronchoscopic intervention
Comparative Analysis & Findings
- The patient's case demonstrates that malignant central airway obstruction should be treated primarily by addressing the underlying cause, rather than procedural intervention, depending on clinical presentation and history of response to therapy.
- The study shows that primary therapy for DLBCL can effectively manage central airway obstruction, reducing the need for surgical or bronchoscopic intervention.
- The case highlights the importance of prompt management of airway obstruction in PMBCL, as severe cases can be life-threatening if left untreated
Implications and Future Directions
- This study suggests that a more personalized approach to treating central airway obstruction could be adopted, taking into account the underlying cause of the obstruction and the patient's clinical presentation and response to therapy.
- Future studies could investigate the efficacy and safety of primary therapy for DLBCL in managing central airway obstruction in different patient populations.
- The study highlights the importance of considering the possibility of DLBCL in patients presenting with central airway obstruction and the need for further research into the best treatment strategies for this condition