ALK-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: report of four cases and review of the literature
Author Information
Author(s): Beltran Brady, Castillo Jorge, Salas Renzo, Quiñones Pilar, Morales Domingo, Hurtado Fernando, Riva Luis, Winer Eric
Primary Institution: Department of Oncology and Radiotherapy, Edgardo Rebagliati Martins Hospital, Lima, Peru
Hypothesis
What are the clinicopathological characteristics of ALK-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma?
Conclusion
ALK-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is a distinct variant characterized by aggressive behavior and poor response to standard therapies, although some cases can have prolonged survival.
Supporting Evidence
- All four cases exhibited plasmablastic morphology.
- Two cases had primary extranodal disease.
- Survival for patients with stage I, II, III, and IV were 13, 62, 72, and 11 months, respectively.
- Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for ALK, MUM1, CD45, and EMA.
Takeaway
This study looked at four patients with a rare type of lymphoma that can be very aggressive, but some patients can live longer than expected.
Methodology
The study involved a comprehensive comparison of clinical and pathological features of four cases with an extensive literature review.
Limitations
The study is limited by the small sample size and the retrospective nature of the data collection.
Participant Demographics
Three adult males, one pediatric female.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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