Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma presenting as a chronic leg ulcer: The importance of repeat tissue biopsy

Abstract

Ulceration of the leg is often associated with significant consequences for both the individual and society. The diagnosis of chronic leg ulcer is not appropriate. Primary cutaneous diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (PCLBCL), leg type, is a distinct clinicopathological entity. Chemotherapy in the form of R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, hydroxydaunorubicin, Oncovin and prednisolone) is considered to be the first line of treatment for these lymphomas. We report a 69-year-old man who presented with chronic leg ulcer with a first negative biopsy and a diagnosis of PCLBCL, leg type, verified on the subsequent biopsy. This case report emphasises the importance of differential diagnosis of lymphoma in non-healing ulcers and also the value of repeat tissue biopsy in cases with a negative initial result but strong clinical suspicion.