Pleomorphic Mantle Cell Lymphoma of the Tongue Base Presenting With Dysphagia

• Published in: Clinical medicine insights. Ear, nose and throat Vol. 12; p. 1179550619831058
• Main Authors: Ryan, Marisa A, Cheng, Tracy, Yoo, David S, Fisher, Samuel R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London, England SAGE Publications 2019; Sage Publications Ltd
• Subjects: Chemotherapy; Cytogenetics; Dysphagia; Flow cytometry; Head & neck cancer; Histology; Lymphoma; Medical prognosis; Patients; Radiation therapy; Short Report; pleomorphic mantle cell lymphoma; non-Hodgkin lymphoma; oropharyngeal lymphoma; tongue base lymphoma; B-cell lymphoma
• ISSN: 1179-5506; 1179-5506
• DOI: 10.1177/1179550619831058

Objectives: We aim to increase awareness of pleomorphic mantle cell lymphoma as a rare, but aggressive form of lymphoma with propensity for recurrence in secondary locations. Methods: We report the case of a 70-year-old man who presented with chronic post-nasal drainage, dysphagia, and voice changes caused by a tongue base mass. Results: Partial excision and pathology showed a pleomorphic mantle cell lymphoma, and radiation treatment was completed. A regional recurrence was detected 3 years later and treated with radiation. He had no evidence of disease 17 months after treatment of the recurrence and is under close surveillance. Conclusions: Pleomorphic mantle cell lymphoma is an aggressive subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that can affect the head and neck. Confirming the diagnosis with immunotyping and genotyping from fresh specimens can guide appropriate treatment and then close clinical follow-up.