Primary retroperitoneal tumor with unexpected gingival involvement

Abstract

Retroperitoneal tumors present diagnostic challenges, although a definitive diagnosis can be established based on a histopathological analysis. We herein report the case of a 62-year-old woman with a massive retroperitoneal tumor who was referred to our department for surgery. Although we initially planned to perform an incisional biopsy, we unexpectedly detected gingival swelling, and a gingival biopsy subsequently confirmed a pathological diagnosis of Burkitt’s lymphoma (BL). We successfully avoided the use of more invasive diagnostic procedures and were able to promptly initiate chemotherapy. Obtaining an immediate pathological diagnosis is essential for providing successful treatment in such cases, as the disease is potentially curable with chemotherapy. BL should therefore be considered in the differential diagnosis of massive retroperitoneal tumors, highlighting the importance of routine systemic screening.