Primary follicular lymphoma of the gastrointestinal tract: a clinical and pathologic study of 26 cases

[Studies on clinicopathological features of duodenal-type follicular lymphoma of 18 patients]

To investigate the clinical and pathological characteristics of duodenal-type follicular lymphoma (D-FL), and to deepen the understanding of Duodenal-type follicular lymphoma. The clinical symptoms, endoscopic features, pathologic features, immunophenotype, molecular pathological features and treatment follow-up of 18 D-FL patients diagnosed in Department of Pathology, Beijing Tiantan Hospital affiliated to Capital Medical University between January 2020 and July 2023 were summarized. A total of 18 patients with D-FL were included, including 10 males and 8 females. The median age was 49 (32-69) years respectively. Most of the patients were found during gastroenteroscopy or presented with the common gastrointestinal symptoms of stomach pain, acid reflux, vomiting and diarrhea. Most endoscopic findings were multiple small gray and white polyposis. In the pathological morphology, the mucous layer and submucous layer showed lymphoid follicular structures with full and strained follicles. The immunophenotype showed that the tumor cells strongly expressed CD20 and BCL2 and had low proliferation activity. Immunoglobulin clonal analysis of 1 case showed IgK monoclonal rearrangement (1/1). FISH showed 1 case of BCL2 gene rearrangement (1/3). All patients did not receive targeted chemotherapy and adopted a wait-and-see strategy. Median follow-up was 12 (2-34) months. This study shows that D-FL is an indolent lymphoma, which tends to occur in the duodenum and has a good prognosis.

Disease surveillance evaluation of primary small-bowel follicular lymphoma using capsule endoscopy images based on a deep convolutional neural network (with video)

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Capsule endoscopy (CE) is useful in evaluating disease surveillance for primary small-bowel follicular lymphoma (FL), but some cases are difficult to evaluate objectively. This study evaluated the usefulness of a deep convolutional neural network (CNN) system using CE images for disease surveillance of primary small-bowel FL.

METHODS

We enrolled 26 consecutive patients with primary small-bowel FL diagnosed between January 2011 and January 2021 who underwent CE before and after a watch-and-wait strategy or chemotherapy. Disease surveillance by the CNN system was evaluated by the percentage of FL-detected images among all CE images of the small-bowel mucosa.

RESULTS

Eighteen cases (69%) were managed with a watch-and-wait approach, and 8 cases (31%) were treated with chemotherapy. Among the 18 cases managed with the watch-and-wait approach, the outcome of lesion evaluation by the CNN system was almost the same in 13 cases (72%), aggravation in 4 (22%), and improvement in 1 (6%). Among the 8 cases treated with chemotherapy, the outcome of lesion evaluation by the CNN system was improvement in 5 cases (63%), almost the same in 2 (25%), and aggravation in 1 (12%). The physician and CNN system reported similar results regarding disease surveillance evaluation in 23 of 26 cases (88%), whereas a discrepancy between the 2 was found in the remaining 3 cases (12%), attributed to poor small-bowel cleansing level.

CONCLUSIONS

Disease surveillance evaluation of primary small-bowel FL using CE images by the developed CNN system was useful under the condition of excellent small-bowel cleansing level.

Multifocal Follicular Lymphoma Isolated to the Gastrointestinal Tract: A Rare Finding

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a common form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Although extranodal involvement of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is common in lymphomas, primary GI-FL confined to the GI tract is relatively rare. The disease process is typically indolent in nature and usually incidentally found. Among this subset of patients, the duodenum and terminal ileum tend to be the most common site of origin. Here, we present a rare case of primary multifocal GI-FL that found incidentally during routine colonoscopy with subsequent esophagogastroduodenoscopy and video capsule endoscopy revealing duodenal, jejunal, and sigmoid colon involvement.

Endoscopic and Histopathological Characteristics of Gastrointestinal Lymphoma: A Multicentric Study

Background: Extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is more prevalent in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract than in other sites. This study aimed to determine the endoscopic characteristics of primary gastrointestinal non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Methods: We investigated 140 patients from three tertiary referral hospitals with primary malignant lymphoma of the gastrointestinal tract. Characteristics of the lesions were evaluated and analyzed using image-enhanced endoscopy, endoscopic ultrasound, and histopathology. Results: The median age was 60.5 (range: 11-99), and 59 (42.1%) were female. The most frequent complaint was abdominal pain (74.3%), followed by bloody feces (10%) and diarrhea (2.9%). B symptoms were observed in 15 (10.7%) patients. GI obstruction was the most common complication (10.0%), followed by hemorrhage (7.9%) and perforation (1.5%). Regarding endoscopic findings, the identified sites were the following: the stomach (61.4%), colon (10%), small intestine (10%), ileocecum (8.6%), rectum (6.4%), and duodenum (3.6%). Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma are most prevalent in the stomach. Helicobacter pylori was identified in 46 cases (39.0%), with MALT lymphoma being the most infected subtype. Nearly all gastrointestinal non-Hodgkin lymphomas manifested as superficial type (25-59.6%) and ulcer type (15.6-50%) under endoscopy. We found that fungating type and protruding with ulcer type were more frequent types of aggressive lymphomas (diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, and T-cell lymphoma) compared to the indolent types (MALT lymphoma, follicular lymphoma, duodenal-type follicular lymphoma, and small lymphocytic lymphoma) (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study showed that most subtypes of gastrointestinal non-Hodgkin lymphomas exhibited same endoscopic features (superficial type and ulcer type). Aggressive gastrointestinal non-Hodgkin lymphomas (diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma, and T-cell lymphoma) were highly suspected when fungating lesions and protruding with ulcer lesions were encountered under endoscopy. Endoscopists should be aware of the connection between enhanced endoscopic characteristics and histological varieties of gastrointestinal lymphoma to improve diagnosis.

Predictive factors for the progression of primary localized stage small-bowel follicular lymphoma

BACKGROUND

Primary small-bowel follicular lymphoma (FL) is mainly diagnosed as a duodenal lesion during esophagogastroduodenoscopy. Recently, with the widespread use of small-bowel endoscopy, FL in the jejunum and ileum has been detected. Most patients with small-bowel FL are diagnosed at the localized stage, and a watch-and-wait policy is used. However, the predictive factors for the progression of small-bowel FL have not been clarified. This study retrospectively examined the predictive factors for the progression of primary localized stage small-bowel FL based on clinicopathological and endoscopic findings.

METHODS

We enrolled 60 consecutive patients with primary small-bowel FL diagnosed at two tertiary hospitals between January 2005 and December 2020, with localized stage, low grade, and low tumor burden with the watch-and-wait policy. We examined the predictive factors for progression according to the clinicopathological and endoscopic findings. Endoscopic findings were focused on the color tone, circumferential location of follicular lesions (circumference ≥ 1/2 or < 1/2), fusion of follicular lesions (fusion [ +] or [ -]), and protruded lesions (≥ 6 mm or < 6 mm).

RESULTS

Progressive disease was observed in 12 (20%) patients (mean observation period, 76.4 ± 55.4 months). In the multivariate analysis, "circumference ≥ 1/2" and "fusion (+)" were significant predictive factors for progression. According to the Kaplan-Meier analysis, progression-free survival was significantly shorter in the "circumference ≥ 1/2" and/or "fusion (+)" group than in the "circumference < 1/2" and "fusion ( -)" group.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic findings of "circumference ≥ 1/2" and "fusion (+)" were significant predictive factors for the progression of primary localized stage small-bowel FL.

Duodenal-type follicular lymphoma more than 10 years after treatment intervention: A retrospective single-center analysis

BACKGROUND

Duodenal-type follicular lymphoma (D-FL) has been recognized as a rare entity that accounts for approximately 4% of primary gastrointestinal lymphomas. D-FL follows an indolent clinical course compared with common nodal FL and is generally considered to have a better prognosis. Therefore, the “watch and wait” approach is frequently adopted as the treatment method. Alternatively, there is an option to actively intervene in D-FL. However, the long-term outcomes of such cases are poorly understood.

AIM

To clarify the clinical outcomes after long-term follow-up in cases of D-FL with treatment intervention.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed patients who met the following criteria: the lesion was confirmed by endoscopy, the diagnosis of D-FL was confirmed histopathologically, and the patient was followed-up for more than 10 years after the intervention at our center.

RESULTS

We identified 5 cases of D-FL. Two patients showed a small amount of bone marrow involvement (Stage IV). Rituximab was used as a treatment for remission in all 5 patients. It was also used in combination with chemotherapy in 2 Stage IV patients as well as for maintenance treatment. Radiation therapy was performed in 2 cases, which was followed by complete remission (CR). Eventually, all 5 patients achieved CR and survived for more than 10 years. However, 3 patients experienced recurrence. One patient achieved a second CR by retreatment, and in another case, the lesion showed spontaneous disappearance. The remaining patient had systemic widespread recurrence 13 years after the first CR. Biopsy results suggested that the FL lesions were transformed into diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The patient died 4 years later despite receiving various chemotherapies.

CONCLUSION

In this study, the treatment for patients of D-FL in Stage IV was successful. In the future, criteria for how to treat “advanced” D-FL should be established based on additional cases. This study of patients with D-FL indicates that whole-body follow-up examinations should continue for a long time due to a fatal recurrence 13 years after reaching CR.

Primary Gastrointestinal Follicular Lymphomas: A Prospective Study of 31 Patients with Long-term Follow-up Registered in the French Gastrointestinal Lymphoma Study Group (GELD) of the French Federation of Digestive Oncology (FFCD)

Background/Aims

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Ibritumomab Tiuxetan Radioimmunotherapy for Primary Gastrointestinal Follicular Lymphoma

Primary gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma (PGIFL) is characterized by localized involvement of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. PGIFL usually runs an indolent course. External beam radiation therapy is curative in a substantial proportion of localized follicular lymphomas, but GI toxicities may discourage its use in PGIFL. Ibritumomab tiuxetan radioimmunotherapy (RIT) is a radioimmunoconjugate of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody linked to chelator tiuxetan and radioisotope. RIT delivers confined high-intensity radiation with short path length specifically targeting lymphoma cells and sparing normal tissue. In this case series report, we included six cases of PGIFL treated with RIT. All patients had low-risk, localized, and nonbulky disease. All patients responded completely and were relapse-free for the duration of follow-up. Hematologic toxicities were seen, but none were serious. RIT is a potentially curative treatment option in PGIFL with a tolerable toxicity profile.

Development of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma from duodenal type follicular lymphoma: a retrospective study of 23 cases

The incidence and clinical characteristics of histological transformation (HT) from duodenal type follicular lymphoma (DFL) are unclear. A retrospective analysis was conducted to identify the incidence and clinical features of HT from DFL in 23 cases with DFL. The median follow-up duration was 4.6 years (range, 0.8-20 years). HT to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was observed in 2 of 23 cases during follow-up (8.7%). One of two cases transformed at 21 months later with increased serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH; 1655 U/L) and abdominal lymphadenopathy. Partial response was achieved after R-THP (pirarubicin)-COP therapy, but the disease progressed. The other case transformed at 8.3 years with an increase of serum LDH (4022 U/L), abdominal lymphadenopathy, and bone marrow involvement. The disease was refractory to DA-EPOCH-R and a high-dose methotrexate/cytarabine regimen. The patient received allogenic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation and finally achieved complete response. Both cases developed HT at nodal or other intestinal lesions with no progression of the primary duodenal lesion. No significant factors for the occurrence of HT were identified. Although the incidence is low, HT could occur in DFL with aggressive clinical manifestations.

Scientific Advances and the Evolution of Diagnosis, Subclassification and Treatment of Lymphoma

The diagnosis of lymphoma has evolved tremendously over time. Initially, diagnosis of lymphoma was largely based on morphology alone. Over time, immunophenotyping using flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry, and then in situ hybridization, have contributed dramatically to the pathologist's ability to recognize, diagnose and subclassify lymphomas more precisely. In recent years, cytogenetic and molecular genetic techniques have developed that allow evaluation of abnormalities in lymphomas, leading to an understanding of their pathogenesis and opening the door to targeted therapies that will lead to better outcomes for lymphoma patients.

Tumour-immune microenvironment in duodenal-type follicular lymphoma

Despite duodenal-type follicular lymphoma (DTFL) being morphologically, immunophenotypically and genetically indistinguishable from nodal FL (nFL), this entity typically shows a significantly better prognosis. Here, we analysed the tumour immune microenvironments of diagnostic specimens from patients with DTFL (n = 30), limited-stage FL (LSFL; n = 19) and advanced-stage FL (ASFL; n = 31). The mean number of CD8⁺ tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in the neoplastic follicles was higher in DTFL (1,827/mm² ) than in LSFL (1,150/mm² ) and ASFL (1,188/mm² ) (P = 0·002, P = 0·002, respectively). In addition, CD8⁺ PD1^-  T cells with non-exhausting phenotype were more abundant in the peripheral blood (PB) of DTFL than in LSFL and ASFL, indicating that DTFL may exhibit a better and longer-lasting T cell-mediated immune response. Moreover, whereas FOXP3⁺ CTLA-4⁺ effector regulatory T cells (eTregs) were rarely observed in the neoplastic follicles of DTFL (mean: 12/mm² ), they were more abundant in LSFL (78/mm² ) and ASFL (109/mm² ) (P = 2·80 × 10^-5 , P = 4·74 × 10^-8 , respectively), and the numbers of eTregs correlated inversely with those of CD8⁺ TILs (r = -0267; P = 0·018). Furthermore, DTFL showed significantly fewer circulating FOXP3^hi CD45RA^- CD25^hi eTregs (0·146%) than ASFL (0·497%) and healthy controls (0·639%) (P = 0·0003, P = 6·79 × 10^-7 , respectively). These results suggest that the augmented anti-tumour immune reactions may contribute to a better prognosis on DTFL.

Early Events in Lymphoid Neoplasms and Indolent Follicular Lymphomas

Technical advances in diagnostic modalities have led to the characterization of indolent lymphoid disorders similar to the in situ lesions described in epithelial malignancies. These early and indolent lymphoid lesions share clinicopathologic characteristics with well-characterized lymphoid malignancies such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia and follicular lymphoma. The in situ lesions have an indolent clinical course with only a minor subset shown to progress to frank malignancies. In addition to the in situ lesions, new indolent lymphoproliferative disorders have been recently characterized. Diagnosis and characterization of these indolent lesions is necessary to prevent overtreatment with aggressive therapeutic regimens.

Usefulness of magnifying endoscopy and endoscopic ultrasonography for the gastric involvement of follicular lymphoma

A 61-year-old man received an esophagogastroduodenoscopy for further investigation of mesenteric lymphadenopathy. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed swollen gastric folds and cobble stone mucosa in the gastric body. Magnifying endoscopy with narrow-band imaging showed branched abnormal vessels and the absence or destruction of gastric pits. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) depicted homogeneously hypoechoic thickening of the submucosal layer where the mucosal changes were observed. The patient was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma by biopsy of these lesions. We should recognize that these endoscopic features are consistent with follicular lymphoma involving the stomach and that concurrent EUS is useful for diagnosis and identification of adequate biopsy sites.

Histological transformation in duodenal-type follicular lymphoma: a case report and review of the literature

Duodenal-type follicular lymphoma (DFL) is a rare variant of follicular lymphoma (FL) characterized by distinctive clinical features such as localization and favorable prognosis. We herein report a case of DFL in which histological transformation into diffuse large B-cell lymphoma developed 7 years after diagnosis. The transformed lymphoma was refractory to chemotherapy, and the patient passed away due to disease progression. To date, there have been only a limited number of reported cases of histological transformation of DFL, and the clinical outcomes of those cases except our present case have been favorable, with good responses to chemotherapy. Although the histological transformation of DFL is a rare event, the clinical course of the present case suggested that it would be a fatal event and underscore the importance of the life-long management of DFL. Further accumulation of cases is required to elucidate its incidence, characteristics, and prognosis.

Coexistence of primary colorectal follicular lymphoma and multiple myeloma: a case report

Colorectal follicular lymphoma (FL) occurs less frequently than duodenal-type FL, which is an established entity, and primary multiple FL only involving the colon is rare. Furthermore, the coexistence of lymphoma and multiple myeloma (MM) within the same patient is rare and the current study reports such a case. The patient was an asymptomatic 62-year-old man. He underwent colonoscopy screening, which revealed at least five polypoid tumors from the cecum to the rectum. Biopsy samples stained positive for CD20 and B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) but stained negative for CD10, and fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis identified IGH/BCL2 in 95.2% of the tumor cells. Based on these findings, the patient was diagnosed with FL. On the bone marrow aspirate, the plasma cell count was 30% of all nucleated cells. Bence-Jones κ-type protein was detected by protein electrophoresis in serum and urine. The serum-free light chain κ/λ level was significantly elevated (484.3). Thus, the patient was also diagnosed with MM. Both FL and MM were targeted therapeutically; rituximab and bendamustine were effective for FL, and lenalidomide and low-dose dexamethasone were effective for MM. The patient was treated for 3 years and 7 months and, until now, was off-treatment for 4 years without rapid progression of the two malignancies. Although both diseases are still present, the patient has maintained stable disease. Our findings suggest that lymphoma and MM should be targeted separately as independent hematological malignancies when they occur concurrently.

Follicular Lymphoma Diagnostic Caveats and Updates

CONTEXT.—

Follicular lymphoma is a common small B-cell lymphoma, likely to be encountered by any practicing pathologist, regardless of specialty. Although the features of typical follicular lymphoma are well known and in most instances easily identifiable, there are lesser-appreciated morphologic appearances that can raise alternative diagnostic possibilities. The limited tissue available in core needle biopsies can make it additionally challenging to thoroughly evaluate those features in the context of architecture. Furthermore, ancillary testing including immunohistochemistry and molecular/genetic analysis do not always show classic findings and may pose additional challenges to interpretation.

OBJECTIVES.—

To review the morphologic features of follicular lymphoma with a discussion of morphologic variants and mimics; to discuss pitfalls of ancillary testing and provide the practicing pathologist with an appropriate context for interpretation of immunohistochemical and molecular/genetic studies when follicular lymphoma is part of the differential diagnosis; and to propose diagnostic strategies when there is limited tissue for evaluation.

DATA SOURCES.—

We used examples of follicular lymphoma from our institution as well as a review of the literature, with a focus on the diagnostic aspects that are broadly relevant to a general pathology practice.

CONCLUSIONS.—

Follicular lymphoma can occasionally present with atypical morphologic, immunohistochemical, or molecular/genetic features. In particular, those findings can be difficult to interpret in the setting of a limited tissue sample. Awareness of those possibilities will help guide the pathologist to a more accurate and precise diagnosis.

Colorectal Lymphoma: A Review

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that primarily involves the colon is rare and should be distinguished from the more common systemic nodal lymphoma. It has unique clinical expectations and management consideration. Different histologic subtypes of NHL involve the colon, which varies in the clinical behavior and likelihood of obtaining durable remissions with treatment. This article will review the current understanding of the different histologic subtypes of primary colorectal lymphoma and propose management algorithms.

Primary follicular lymphoma of ileum [corrected] disguised as multiple miliary like lesions: A case report and review of literature

Primary follicular lymphoma (PFL) of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is rare and account for 1%-3% of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Within the small intestine, the PFL is more common in jejunum than in the ileum. Due to low prevalence of the disease, the clinical manifestations are not well known, and diagnosis is usually delayed leading to complications. We herein report a case of PFL of GIT who presented with intestinal obstruction and unique gross morphology. Diagnosis was made by morphology and supported by immunohistochemistry.

Primary Colonic Follicular Lymphoma Presenting as Four Diminutive Sessile Polyps Found Incidentally During Colonoscopy

Follicular lymphomas, which typically arise in the lymph nodes with spleen, liver, and bone marrow involvement, have generally low occurrence rates in Asian countries as compared with Western countries. Follicular lymphomas of the gastrointestinal tract are rare, and primary colonic follicular lymphomas are particularly rare compared with others found in the small intestine and duodenum. Colonoscopic imaging of colonic lymphomas, including follicular lymphoma, may reveal mucosal ulcerations, erosions, indurations, polypoid mass-like lesions, and diffuse mucosal nodularity. Herein, we report a unique case of a follicular lymphoma of the transverse colon characterized by four sessile diminutive polyps located intermittently with multiple lymph node involvement in a 62-year-old man.

A Gastric Follicular Lymphoma Presenting as a Submucosal Tumor with a Diagnosis Determined by Endoscopic Resection

We herein report the case of 74-year-old man with gastric follicular lymphoma resected by endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). A submucosal tumor 7 mm in diameter was detected at the gastric middle body. Endoscopic ultrasonography showed a homogenous hypoechoic tumor localized in the submucosa. The tumor was removed by ESD immediately, before further tumor growth would preclude endoscopic resection. The pathological findings indicated follicular lymphoma (FL) with negative horizontal and vertical margins. The clinical stage of FL was confirmed to be stage I by extensive work-up procedures, including contrast-enhanced computed tomography, fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, and colonoscopy. The patient remains in complete remission without any treatment.

Detecting a rare composite small bowel lymphoma by Magnetic Resonance Imaging coincidentally: A case report with radiological, surgical and histopathological features

INTRODUCTION

Diagnosing lymphoma continues to prove challenging in the clinical practice. Composite lymphoma (CL) is defined by the coexistence of different lymphoma subtypes in the same anatomical location. This condition has seldom been witnessed in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We weren't able to find previous cases in the literature about small bowel CL with follicular lymphoma (FL) and classical Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL). Surgery is the treatment of choice to obtain accurate histology, to manage and prevent acute complications. We state that this work has been reported in line with the SCARE criteria.

CASE PRESENTATION

We describe an extremely rare case of small bowel CL, presenting as an intestinal bulky mass with circumferential infiltration of bowel loops. The small bowel tumor was incidentally detected by abdominal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in a 64-year-old man who suffered from rectal discomfort and non-specific clinical symptoms. After this radiological finding, the patient underwent multiphase contrast computed tomography (MDCT) for initial staging and to study vascular involvement. Surgery was recommended to obtain an accurate diagnosis both due to initial symptoms of the intestinal obstruction and to avoid small bowel complications. The histopathological examination revealed a small bowel CL composed mainly of B cells FL with also CHL components.

CONCLUSION

It is important to note that involvement of the proximal ileal loops is very rare in small bowel lymphoma. MRI represents a precious diagnostic tool to evaluate the intra and extramural extent of the tumor.

Primary duodenal follicular lymphoma with late disseminated nodal relapse responsive to rituximab monotherapy: A case report

Gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma is a rare malignancy accounting for only 1-3.6% of primary non-Hodgkin lymphomas of the gastrointestinal tract and it is a relatively new clinical entity that was recently classified as a distinct variant of systemic follicular lymphoma. Therefore, data regarding long-term outcome are currently lacking. In addition, a consensus on the management of this disease has not been established and treatment strategies are derived from systemic follicular lymphoma. We herein report the case of a 51-year-old female patient diagnosed with duodenal follicular lymphoma who had nodal relapse nearly 5 years after complete remission. The patient was successfully treated with a 4-week course of rituximab during the initial diagnosis and relapse. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report to demonstrate the efficacy of a 4-week course of rituximab during both the initial diagnosis and nodal relapse. The aim of this report was to add to the limited available data on the treatment of gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma.

Primary Follicular Lymphoma in the Rectum Incidentally Found on Screening Colonoscopy

The gastrointestinal tract is the most common site of extra-nodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, the incidence of primary rectal lymphoma is extremely rare. Among the primary gastrointestinal lymphomas, follicular lymphoma has been described as a rare disease. It is difficult to diagnose rectal lymphoma due to its variable growth patterns and inadequate biopsies. Majority of patients with rectal lymphoma have non-specific symptoms or negative biopsies, often delaying the diagnosis. Our patient is a 62-year-old female. Two sessile and smooth subepithelial lesions with a yellowish normal mucosa were found on a screening colonoscopy. The initial mucosal biopsy finding was chronic inflammation, but we were highly suspicion of malignancy; we performed an endoscopic mucosal resection. Herein, we present a rare case of rectal follicular lymphoma diagnosed by endoscopic mucosal resection with a literature review.

Comparison of clinicopathologic characteristics of gastric follicular lymphomas and duodenal follicular lymphomas

We compared the incidence, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) findings, and histopathologic characteristics of gastric and duodenal follicular lymphomas (FL). Of 626 FL cases, primary gastric FL and secondary gastric involvement of FL were observed in 1% and 5% of the cases, respectively, which were lower incidences than duodenal FL (10% and 9%, respectively). Gastric FL usually appeared as submucosal tumors (primary, 71%; secondary, 79%), whereas duodenal FL, as granular lesions (primary, 92%: secondary, 87%). In the granular duodenal lesions, the neoplastic follicles were located sparsely on the muscularis mucosa and could be found between villi, whereas in the stomach, similar lesions were hidden within the lamina propria, and only larger lesions such as submucosal tumors could be detected on the mucosal surface. The differences in the incidences and EGD findings were considered to be associated with structural differences of the lamina propria. Typical FL features: grades 1-2 histology, follicularity, and CD10⁺ and/or BCL6⁺ and BCL2⁺ were usually observed in all primary and secondary gastric and duodenal FL. Gastroduodenal and bone marrow involvement were found in 12% and 33% of the cases, respectively, and there was no significant correlation between them (P=.095). Twenty-nine cases (5%) were up-staged by gastroduodenal-positive results. In conclusion, the histopathology of gastric FL was similar to that of duodenal and nodal FL; the differences in the incidence and EGD findings between gastric and duodenal FL were considered to be associated with structural difference of the lamina propria, and EGD was useful as a staging procedure.

Follicular lymphoma-related colitis resembling ulcerative colitis

Among the various manifestations of colonic involvement in malignant lymphomas, an ulcerative colitis-like appearance is rare. Herein, we describe a case in which extranodal colonic involvement resembled ulcerative colitis in a patient with advanced follicular lymphoma. A 59-year-old Japanese man with diarrhea and body weight loss was referred to our hospital. Computed tomography (CT) revealed systemic lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and thickening of the sigmoid colon and rectum walls. ¹⁸F-fluorodeoxy-glucose positron emission tomography (¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT) revealed intense tubular ¹⁸F-FDG accumulation extending from the rectum to the colon at the hepatic flexure and much weaker accumulation in the systemic lymph nodes, bone marrow, and spleen. The isotope-enriched areas had an ulcerative colitis-like appearance as shown via colonoscopy. The patient was ultimately diagnosed with follicular lymphoma (stage IV A, grade 1) based on a pathological examination of the neck lymph nodes, iliac bone marrow, and colon. After six courses of chemotherapy (R-CHOP), ¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT confirmed complete remission of the lymphoma including the colonic lesion. This is presumably the first case of ulcerative-like colitis caused by a follicular lymphoma. As a novel approach, the lymphoma-related colitis was detected by comparing the pathology results and the ¹⁸F-FDG-PET/CT results.

Pancreatic Follicular Lymphoma Presenting as Acute Pancreatitis: Report of a Case

Pancreatic B-cell lymphoma is rare; it accounts for 0.2% to 2.0% of extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and constitutes less than 0.5% of all pancreatic malignancies. Most histologic types of the pancreatic lymphoma are diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma is quite rare. We report here a case of pancreatic follicular lymphoma that was initially detected by acute pancreatitis. This is the first reported case of pancreatic follicular lymphoma presenting with acute pancreatitis. A 71-year-old woman had epigastric and left upper quadrant abdominal pain. Computed tomography (CT) revealed features of acute pancreatitis. After standard therapy for pancreatitis, enhanced CT showed a pancreatic tumor (50 × 35 mm) in the body of the pancreas with gradual enhancement. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography showed a complete interruption of the pancreatic duct in the body, with mild dilation of the duct in the tail of the pancreas. Endoscopic ultrasonography revealed hypervascularity of the pancreatic tumor. The patient underwent distal pancreatectomy to remove the cause of pancreatitis and to disclose the diagnosis. Histologic examination revealed follicular lymphoma of pancreas. Despite recent improvement in clinical strategies, differential diagnosis between pancreatic lymphoma and pancreatic cancer is still difficult without histologic information. Pancreatic lymphoma should be considered as a differential diagnosis in a patient who initially presents with acute pancreatitis.

CD10 down expression in follicular lymphoma correlates with gastrointestinal lesion involving the stomach and large intestine

Follicular lymphoma (FL) shows co-expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL2) and CD10, whereas downexpression of CD10 is occasionally experienced in gastrointestinal (GI) FL with unknown significance. Gastrointestinal FL is a rare variant of FL, and its similarity with mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma was reported. We investigated the clinicopathological and genetic features of CD10 downexpressed (CD10^down ) GI-FL. The diagnosis of CD10^down FL was carried out with a combination of pathological and molecular analyses. The incidence of CD10^down GI-FL was shown in 35/172 (20.3%) cases, which was more frequent than nodal FL (3.5%, P < 0.001). The difference was additionally significant between GI-FL and nodal FL when the analysis was confined to primary GI-FL (55.2% vs 3.5%, P < 0.001). Compared to CD10⁺ GI-FL, CD10^down GI-FL significantly involved the stomach or large intestine (P = 0.015), and additionally showed the downexpression of BCL6 (P < 0.001). The follicular dendritic cell meshwork often showed a duodenal pattern in the CD10^down group (P = 0.12). Furthermore, a lymphoepithelial lesion was observed in 5/12 (40%) gastric FL cases, which indicated caution in the differentiation of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. Molecular analyses were undertaken in seven cases of CD10^down GI-FL, and an identical clone was found between CD10^down follicles and CD10⁺ BCL2⁺ neoplastic follicles. In the diagnosis of cases with CD10^down BCL2⁺ follicles, careful examination with molecular studies should be carried out.

Gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma: using primary site as a predictor of survival

Gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma (GI‐FL) is a rare extranodal variant of follicular lymphoma (FL) that has been increasingly reported in the literature. An especially indolent course is linked to the disease after a lack of observed patient death in past studies. However, overall survival (OS) and associated prognostic factors remain unclear. A large population‐based database was utilized to identify demographic and clinicopathologic characteristics of GI‐FL, along with survival differences among primary sites. The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Registry was used to identify GI‐FL cases between the years of 1973 and 2012. Kaplan–Meier curves compared OS differences and Cox proportional hazard models analyzed prognostic factors. Final analysis included 1109 cases. Small intestinal cases, which included those with single‐site and multi‐segment involvement, were most common (63.6%) followed by gastric (18.2%) and colorectal cases (18.2%). Small intestinal GI‐FL presented more frequently with grade I histology, and less often with grade III histology (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). Small intestinal cases had better outcomes (5‐year OS = 80.9%, P < 0.001) compared to cases involving the stomach (5‐year OS = 52.7%) and colorectum (5‐year OS = 71.5%). On multivariate analysis for predictors of mortality, small intestinal involvement predicted for better survival; hazard ratio (HR) 0.66 (95% CI: 0.51–0.85). Advanced age (≥66), grade (grade III), and stage (Ann Arbor Stage III/IV) predicted for mortality with HR 5.46 (95% CI: 3.80–7.84), 1.42 (95% CI: 1.10–1.83), 1.57 (95% CI: 1.15–2.16), respectively. GI‐FL has poorer outcomes than previously suggested. Small intestinal involvement has a better prognosis. A possible biological basis for this will require further investigations in the future.

Primary Follicular Lymphoma of the Gastrointestinal Tract: Case Report and Review

PURPOSE

Primary gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma (GI-FL) is considered a rare disease with fewer than 400 cases reported in the literature. It accounts for roughly 1-3 % of GI non-Hodgkins lymphomas (NHL). It originates in the GI tract and typically affects small bowel. The disease has an indolent course, and a prolonged survival can be expected in most cases. Due to its rarity, an optimal diagnostic work up and treatment plan has not been well established.

METHODS

Endoscopic evaluation of the entire gastrointestinal (GI) tract using esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), wireless capsule endoscopy, double-balloon enteroscopy, colonoscopy, and whole body examination with fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) has been suggested to more accurately stage the disease and guide the treatment plan.

RESULTS

Treatment options for GI follicular lymphoma include watch and wait strategy, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immuno-radiotherapy, or a combination of these modalities.

CONCLUSION

In this article, we have summarized the existing information regarding clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment options for this rare entity after presenting a case of GI-FL who was diagnosed during an EGD for evaluation of belching, heartburn, and weight loss.

Diagnosis of follicular lymphoma of the gastrointestinal tract: A better initial diagnostic workup

Due to an increasing incidence and more frequent recognition by endoscopists, gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma has been established as a variant of follicular lymphoma. However, due to its rarity, there are no established guidelines on the optimal diagnostic strategy for patients with primary gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma or secondary gastrointestinal involvement of systemic follicular lymphoma. This review offers an overview and pitfalls to avoid during the initial diagnostic workup of this disease entity. Previously reported case reports, case series, and retrospective studies are reviewed and focus on the disease's endoscopic and histological features, the roles of computed tomography and positron emission tomography scanning, the clinical utility of the soluble interleukin-2 receptor, and the possible pathogenesis.

From the radiologic pathology archives: gastrointestinal lymphoma: radiologic and pathologic findings

Gastrointestinal (GI) lymphoma encompasses a heterogeneous group of neoplasms that have a common lymphoid origin but variable pathologic and imaging features. Extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma (ENMZL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) are the most common. ENMZL usually occurs in the stomach, where it is associated with chronic infection by Helicobacter pylori, and is typically a superficial spreading lesion that causes mucosal nodularity or ulceration and mild wall thickening. DLBCL may arise de novo or from transformation of ENMZL or other low-grade lymphomas. This form of lymphoma produces extensive wall thickening or a bulky mass, but obstruction is uncommon. Mantle cell lymphoma is the classic cause of lymphomatous polyposis, but multiple polyps or nodules can also be seen with ENMZL and follicular lymphoma. Burkitt lymphoma is usually characterized by an ileocecal mass or wall thickening in the terminal ileum in young children, often in the setting of widespread disease. Primary GI Hodgkin lymphoma, which is rare, may be manifested by a variety of findings, though stenosis is more common than with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma is frequently associated with celiac disease and is characterized by wall thickening, ulceration, and even perforation of the jejunum. Accurate radiologic diagnosis of GI lymphoma requires a multifactorial approach based on the clinical findings, site of involvement, imaging findings, and associated complications.

Primary follicular lymphoma of the duodenum

Follicular lymphoma, a common nodal lymphoma, is rare in the gastrointestinal tract. When seen in this location, duodenal involvement is frequent. Most patients have localized disease, and survival appears to be excellent even without treatment. Although the outcomes are improved, the morphologic, immunophenotypic, and genetic features remain similar to those of nodal follicular lymphomas. We describe a woman with de novo follicular lymphoma of the duodenum and discuss the features of this remarkably indolent variant of follicular lymphoma.

Duodenal follicular lymphoma: comprehensive gene expression analysis with insights into pathogenesis

Follicular lymphoma (FL) of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly duodenal follicular lymphoma (DFL), is a rare variant of FL with indolent clinical behavior, and this disease is included in the 2008 World Health Organization classification system. In contrast to nodal follicular lymphoma (NFL), DFL occurs most frequently in the second part of the duodenum, lacks follicular dendritic cell meshworks and has memory B-cell characteristics. However, its molecular pathogenesis is still unclear. In the present study, we examined 10 DFL, 18 NFL and 10 gastric MALT lymphoma samples using gene expression analysis. Quantitative RT-PCR experiments and immunohistochemical analysis for 72 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from an independent series, including 32 DFL, 19 gastric MALT lymphoma and 27 NFL samples, were performed for validation of microarray data. Gene expression profiles of the three lymphoma types were compared using 2918 differentially expressed genes (DEG) and results suggested that DFL shares characteristics of MALT lymphoma. Among these DEG, CCL20 and MAdCAM-1 were upregulated in DFL and MALT but downregulated in NFL. In contrast, protocadherin gamma subfamily genes were upregulated in DFL and NFL. Quantitative RT-PCR and immunohistochemical studies demonstrated concordant results. Double immunofluorescence studies revealed that CCL20 and CCR6 were co-expressed in both DFL and MALT. We hypothesize that increased expression of CCL20 and MAdCAM-1 and co-expression of CCL20 and CCR6 may play an important role in tumorigenesis.

Diagnostic accuracy of endoscopic biopsies for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma: a clinicopathologic study of 48 patients

The purpose of this study was to reveal the diagnostic accuracy of initial pathologic assessment of biopsied samples in patients with gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma lesions. A total of 48 patients with follicular lymphoma (Lugano system stage I: n = 30; II1: n = 4; II2: n = 4; IV: n = 10) with gastrointestinal involvement who underwent endoscopic biopsy were enrolled and retrospectively reviewed. Nine (18.8%) of the 48 patients were not appropriately diagnosed as having follicular lymphoma at the initial biopsy. The initial pathological diagnosis included extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (n = 4), necrotic tissue (n = 2), duodenitis (n = 1), or suspected lymphoma of unspecified subtype (n = 2). The reasons for these inappropriate diagnoses were insufficient histopathologic analysis lacking CD10 and BCL2 staining (n = 7) and unsuitable biopsy samples taken from erosions or ulcers that contained scanty lymphoma cells or no lymphoid follicles (n = 2). In conclusion, incomplete histopathologic analysis and unsuitable biopsy samples are pitfalls in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal follicular lymphoma.

Richter syndrome with follicular colonization of chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma cells mimicking follicular lymphoma

Follicular colonization is occasionally observed in marginal zone lymphoma. In rare cases, it has also been associated with mantle cell lymphoma. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia typically involves nodal or extranodal tissues as diffuse proliferation by complete effacement of the normal architecture. The involvement of chronic lymphocytic leukemia may be less frequently limited to the interfollicular areas. Here, we report a case of Richter syndrome of the small intestine that was initially diagnosed as follicular lymphoma of the gastrointestinal tract because of a partial follicular growth pattern in addition to a mainly diffuse proliferation pattern. The follicular pattern mimicking follicular lymphoma was shown to be composed of reactive follicles with follicular colonization of the original chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells. As the prognoses of Richter syndrome and follicular lymphoma of gastrointestinal tract are quite different, clinicians must carefully diagnose these conditions to avoid a misdiagnosis.

Lymphomas of the Gastrointestinal Tract: An Update

The gastrointestinal tract is the most common extranodal site of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Certain lymphomas have a predilection for the gastrointestinal tract, including extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, mantle cell lymphoma, natural killer/T-cell lymphoma, and enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma. Follicular lymphoma may also be primary to the gastrointestinal tract. In addition to diagnosing neoplastic conditions, it is important to differentiate lymphomas from atypical reactive proliferations. Recent research relevant to non-Hodgkin lymphomas involving this location is reviewed with an emphasis on novel and evolving areas of classification.

Diagnosis of the jejunoileal lymphoma by double-balloon endoscopy

AIM: To investigate the feasibility of double-balloon endoscopy (DBE) to detect jejunoileal lymphoma, compared with fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET).

METHODS: Between March 2004 and January 2011, we histologically confirmed involvement of malignant lymphoma of the jejunoileum in 31 patients by DBE and biopsy. In 20 patients of them, we performed with FDG-PET. We retrospectively reviewed the records of these 20 patients. Their median age was 64 years (range 50-81). In the 20 patients, the pathological diagnosis of underlying non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) comprised follicular lymphoma (FL, n = 12), diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL, n = 4), mantle cell lymphoma (MCL, n = 2), enteropathy associated T cell lymphoma (ETL, n = 1) and anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL, n = 1).

RESULTS: Ten cases showed accumulation by FDG-PET (50%). FDG-PET was positive in 3 of 12 FL cases (25%) while in 7 of 8 non-FL cases (88%, P < 0.05). Intestinal FL showed a significantly lower rate of positive FDG-PET, in comparison with other types of lymphoma. Cases with endoscopically elevated lesions (n = 10) showed positive FDG-PET in 2 (20%), but those with other type NHL did in 8 of 10 (80%, P < 0.05). When the cases having elevated type was compared with those not having elevated type lesion, the number of cases that showed accumulation of FDG was significantly smaller in the former than in the latter.

CONCLUSION: In a significant proportion, small intestinal involvement cannot be pointed out by FDG-PET. Especially, FL is difficult to evaluate by FDG-PET but essentially requires DBE.

Magnifying endoscopy for intestinal follicular lymphoma is helpful for prompt diagnosis

The representative endoscopic features of primary intestinal follicular lymphoma are well known as small whitish polypoid nodules, but a magnified view has only been described in a few case reports. Herein, we report a case with intestinal follicular lymphoma in which magnifying endoscopy with narrow band imaging was helpful for prompt diagnosis. A 57-year-old Japanese woman underwent surveillance esophagogastroduodenoscopy. The endoscopic examination revealed confluent whitish granules in the duodenum, distinct from the nodules or polyps that are typical findings of intestinal follicular lymphoma. Magnifying endoscopy visualized whitish enlarged villi, and narrow band imaging emphasized an elongated and coiled vascular pattern. Based on these features, intestinal follicular lymphoma was highly suspected, and subsequent histological study confirmed the diagnosis. This case demonstrates that magnifying endoscopy with narrow band imaging was useful for the detection and prompt diagnosis of intestinal follicular lymphoma. The pathological features of intestinal follicular lymphoma are also discussed.

Clinical significance of jejunoileal involvement of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma detected by double-balloon enteroscopy

Jejunoileal involvement of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is an important diagnostic factor in determining optimal treatment strategies. Here, we used double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) to detect jejunoileal involvement of NHL and studied its clinical significance in a series of patients with NHL. Adults aged between 18 and 85 years with infiltration of the stomach, duodenum, or colon confirmed by gastrointestinal endoscopy or colonoscopy, suspected jejunoileal involvement determined by CT or FDG-PET, or any other gastrointestinal symptoms, were eligible for inclusion in the study. Among 428 patients with histologically confirmed NHL between 2004 and 2011, 83 were eligible for DBE, but 20 patients were excluded due to rejection or poor clinical status. Thus, 63 underwent DBE. The 3-year overall survival rate was significantly lower in patients with (n = 33), than without (n = 30) jejunoileal involvement of NHL confirmed by DBE (49 vs. 92 %, p < 0.005). Four participants developed aspiration pneumonia, but recovered after treatment with antibiotics.

Regression of follicular lymphoma of the duodenum following eradication of H. pylori infection

A 64-year-old woman was referred for an examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Endoscopy showed an elevated lesion in the duodenum with central depression and multiple white granules. Biopsy specimens revealed lymphoid follicles composed predominantly of centrocytes with scattered centroblasts. The tumor cells were positive for bcl-2. The patient was diagnosed with follicular lymphoma and underwent antibiotic therapy for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. The regression of the lesion was obvious. After 5.5 years of follow-up, there has been no evidence of recurrence. This case suggests that H. pylori eradication therapy is effective for treating follicular lymphoma in the duodenum.

Extranodal and splenic small B-cell lymphoma

Although almost any non-Hodgkin lymphoma can involve the spleen or an extranodal site as part of more widely disseminated disease, there is a group of small B-cell lymphomas that specifically arise in these locations. These are important to recognise as some appear to have a behaviour and prognosis that is distinct from their nodal counterparts. In addition, there are entities that are specific to extranodal locations (such as extranodal marginal zone lymphoma) and to the red or white pulp of the spleen. In this review, the characteristics of these entities will be presented as well as clues to help distinguish lymphoma from reactive infiltrates in extranodal sites and measure to distinguish between small B-cell lymphomas encountered in the spleen and at extranodal locations.