Enteric NK/T Cell Lymphoma-induced Recurrent Perforation in the Intestine: A Case Report.
Jiansen Su, Yixiao Yang, Xinyi Huang et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 31-year-old female presented with abdominal pain and fever, following a previous jejunal perforation diagnosed as an EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorder. Despite negative biopsy results, imaging confirmed intestinal perforation, leading to emergency surgery. Histopathology revealed ENKTL, confirmed by positive immunohistochemical staining. The patient underwent chemotherapy post-surgery and showed significant improvement over 26 months, with no recurrence.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider primary intestinal NK/T-cell lymphoma in young patients with unexplained gastrointestinal perforation, as its non-specific symptoms can complicate early diagnosis.
Why it matters
This case highlights the importance of repeated biopsies and EBER detection in diagnosing rare malignancies, which can significantly impact treatment outcomes.