Splenic marginal zone lymphoma: case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Splenic marginal zone lymphomas are rare tumors which take origin from the B cells. More common in the elderly, often asymptomatic, they can present with abdominal pain, splenomegaly and cytopenia and have an indolent clinical course. We describe a case of a women 79 years old who presented with abdominal pain, fever and splenomegaly. Computed tomography demonstrated splenomegaly with an area of low density in the spleen. Only by laparotomy and splenectomy the correct diagnosis was possible. Because of the indolent course of this kind of lymphomas, splenectomy is the main treatment for patients with abdominal pain, splenomegaly and cytopenia. If there is no pain and no cytopenia, the treatment can be only wait and see. Only in case of progression of disease chemotherapy can be employed.