Adrenal involvement in non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: four cases and review of literature

Leuk Lymphoma. 2004 Apr;45(4):789-94. doi: 10.1080/10428190310001615756.

Abstract

Primary adrenal non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is very rare. We have seen 2 such cases among 241 cases of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (0.83%) over the past 4 years. We could detect 2 more cases who had adrenal involvement, in addition to other extra nodal disease sites. Review of English literature revealed 65 cases of primary adrenal non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, most being single case reports. Salient features included-median age of 68 years (mean age of 47.25 years in our series), bilateral adrenal involvement in 60%, and predominantly diffuse large cell histology with 'B' cell immunophenotype. Adrenal insufficiency was present in two-thirds of the patients at diagnosis. Chemotherapy with or without radiotherapy is the mainstay of treatment. About half the patients respond to treatment, with median survival of 4 months. The high index of suspicion for early diagnosis and prompt treatment may improve outcome.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / therapy
  • Adult
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Biopsy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / diagnosis
  • Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / pathology*
  • Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Salvage Therapy
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Treatment Outcome