Deceptive nasal NK/T-cell lymphoma

Trop Doct. 2017 Jul;47(3):268-271. doi: 10.1177/0049475516684088. Epub 2016 Dec 20.

Abstract

Nasal NK/T cell lymphoma is rare and it easily masquerades as chronic rhinosinusitis. It has a very poor prognosis and hence early diagnosis, although difficult, is necessary for better outcome. We present a case of a 30-year-old man who presented with nasal obstruction, facial oedema and crusts. High-resolution computed tomography found soft tissue in all sinuses and the nasal cavity. Endoscopic biopsy revealed necrotic and inflammatory tissue with fungi on culture. A diagnosis of fungal rhinosinusitis was made but the patient did not respond to antifungal drugs. A histopathology review with immunohistochemistry suggested nasal NK/T cell lymphoma. The patient was started on chemotherapy but died within 1 week.

Keywords: Diagnosis; Extranodal NK-T-cell Lymphoma; Fungal pathology; Lethal midline granuloma; Nose; Sinusitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biopsy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Extranodal NK-T-Cell / diagnosis*
  • Male
  • Mycoses / diagnosis
  • Nose Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Prognosis
  • Sinusitis / diagnosis
  • Sinusitis / microbiology
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed