A Case Report of Mediastinal Tumor: Limfoma Non-Hodgkin

Abstract

Mediastinal tumors in adults are predominantly located in the anterior mediastinum, commonly presenting as lymphoma or thymoma. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is a group of malignant neoplasms originating from lymphoid tissues, primarily the lymph nodes. These lymphomas are not confined to the anterior mediastinum but may also occur in the middle and posterior mediastinal compartments. The average age of onset for this disease ranges between 28 and 35 years. Blood tests, radiological imaging, and histopathological examination are essential for establishing a definitive diagnosis. The treatment approach is determined by the type, stage, histopathological characteristics, and presenting symptoms. A 39-year-old female presented to the surgical oncology clinic with an MSCT scan of the head and neck, revealing a solid anterior mediastinal mass measuring 68 mm (suspected lymphoma). The patient reported an initial complaint of headache accompanied by a neck lump. Physical examination showed normal vital signs but revealed multiple lymphadenopathies in the bilateral submandibular, cervical, and supraclavicular regions. Blood tests and contrast-enhanced thoracic MRI were performed, with MRI findings indicating an anterior mediastinal mass infiltrating the ascending aorta, suggestive of lymphoma. A biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, specifically large B-cell lymphoma, through immunohistochemical analysis. Chemotherapy was recommended as the primary treatment. The signs and symptoms of mediastinal tumors vary widely and are often nonspecific. Asymptomatic masses are usually benign, whereas symptomatic patients often present with underlying malignancies. The tumor’s location is crucial for establishing clinical suspicion and planning biopsies and surgical procedures. The staging of NHL follows the Lugano classification, with chest, abdominal, and pelvic CT scans often required for imaging. Management of lymphoma typically involves chemotherapy alone or in combination with radiotherapy. The location of a mediastinal tumor plays a vital role in narrowing the differential diagnosis and planning biopsies and surgical procedures. Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is not confined to the anterior mediastinum and may occur in other compartments. Radiological and histopathological evaluations are essential for confirming the diagnosis and guiding treatment decisions