Polyclonal B-cell lymphocytosis: a rare, benign condition that mimics a chronic lymphoproliferative disorder.
Emily Parkes, Pedro Martin-Cabrera, Hannah Creasey et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A patient with a history of smoking presented with abdominal discomfort and weight loss, leading to a diagnosis of persistent polyclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (PPBL) after laboratory tests showed elevated polyclonal IgM and characteristic binucleate lymphocytes. Further investigations ruled out malignant conditions, confirming PPBL. The patient's condition improved following smoking cessation.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should recognize the characteristic features of PPBL, including polyclonal lymphocytosis and elevated IgM, to differentiate it from malignant lymphoproliferative disorders and avoid unnecessary treatments.
Why it matters
Understanding PPBL's benign nature and its association with smoking can prevent misdiagnosis and highlight the potential for resolution upon smoking cessation.