Plasmablastic lymphoma in a previously undiagnosed AIDS patient: a case report.
BACKGROUND
Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is an unusual non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) most commonly found in the head and neck region. The majority of cases are seen in adult HIV-positive patients, although PBL has been reported in HIV-negative patients. The diagnosis of PBL serves as an AIDS-defining illness.


METHODS
We report a case of PBL localized to the oral cavity in a previously undiagnosed AIDS patient. The lesion manifested as solitary, ulcerated, and markedly tender. PBL was confirmed by immunohistochemical profile and subsequent tests confirmed AIDS diagnosis. The patient was prescribed highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and concomitant local low dose radiation therapy prior to initiation of chemotherapy.


RESULTS
Complete local clinical response was observed after 4 weeks of treatment with HAART and radiation therapy. The response sustained in this patient in the subsequent 11 months following diagnosis.


CONCLUSIONS
The diagnosis of PBL has a unique immunophenotypic profile and should raise suspicion for AIDS in these patients. HAART added to treatment has shown improved survival.
Vieira
Francisco O
FO
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Tennessee at Memphis, Health Science Center, 920 Madison St., S. 409, Memphis, TN 38103, USA. fvi9124081@aol.com
El Gandour
Omar
O
Buadi
Francis K
FK
Williams
Glenn B
GB
Shires
Courtney B
CB
Zafar
Nadeem
N
D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome / Q000473:pathology* / Q000628:therapy; D000328:Adult; D019380:Anti-HIV Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D023241:Antiretroviral Therapy, Highly Active / Q000379:methods; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor / Q000378:metabolism; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016483:Lymphoma, AIDS-Related / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology* / Q000628:therapy; D009062:Mouth Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology* / Q000628:therapy; D018714:Radiotherapy, Adjuvant; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D019380:Anti-HIV Agents; D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor