Extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma presenting as cavernous sinus syndrome

Sinonasal lymphoma: A primer for otolaryngologists

Objective

Sinonasal lymphomas are a rare entity that commonly present with nonspecific sinonasal symptoms and are often recognized immediately. Through this review, we aim to summarize important principles in diagnosis and treatment of sinonasal lymphomas, with the goal of disseminating the current knowledge of this under-recognized malignancy to otolaryngologists.

Methods

Systemic review using PRISMA guidelines of foundational scholarly articles, guidelines, and trials were reviewed focusing on clinical characteristics of key sinonasal lymphoma subtypes, along with available treatments in the otolaryngology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology literature.

Results

Sinonasal lymphoma are derived from clonal proliferation of lymphocytes at various stages of differentiation, of which diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTL) are the most common. Diagnosis and staging require biopsy with immunohistochemistry in conjunction with imaging and laboratory studies. Treatment is ever evolving and currently includes multi-agent chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.

Conclusion

Otolaryngologists may be the first to recognize sinonasal lymphoma, which requires a comprehensive workup and a multidisciplinary team for treatment. Symptoms are nonspecific and similar to many sinonasal pathologies, and it is crucial for otolaryngologists to keep a broad differential.

Level of Evidence

5.

Sinonasal Lymphoma Presenting as Cavernous Sinus Syndrome: Case Report and Review of the Literature

A 37-year-old man presented with a 1-week history of diplopia. He was under investigation by otorhinolaryngology for left sinonasal malignancy after imaging of the paranasal sinuses had revealed a large homogenous mass in the left nasal cavity. His visual acuity was 6/9 in each eye with no relative afferent pupillary defect. The left pupil, though was mid-dilated and unresponsive to light. He had a left-sided ptosis. Extraocular movements of the left eye were restricted in all directions of gaze and there was with limited abduction, dextroelevation and dextrodepression of the right eye. A trans-nasal biopsy revealed extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma. Further imaging showed a large enhancing nasopharyngeal mass with intracranial extension to the cavernous sinuses and local infiltration together with intracranial abscesses. The patient was started on empirical intravenous antibiotics and supportive treatment. While awaiting institution of lymphoma chemotherapy, he died. The involvement of the cavernous sinus in sinonasal lymphoma represents an advanced stage. This case highlights that lymphoma should be considered in any patient presenting with a cavernous sinus syndrome and sinonasal disease.

Natural Killer (NK)//T-Cell Lymphoma, Nasal Type, with Periorbital Involvement: A Case Report and Literature Review

Patient: Female, 36-year-old

Final Diagnosis: NK/T-cell lymphoma

Symptoms: Nasal congestion • rhinorrea • sinus congestion

Medication: —

Clinical Procedure: —

Specialty: Otolaryngology

Extranodal natural killer/T cell lymphoma, nasal type in the middle cranial fossa: A case report

INTRODUCTION

Extranodal natural killer (NK)/T cell lymphomas, nasal type, are aggressive, non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Extranodal NK/T cell lymphomas, nasal type, involving the central nervous system (CNS) are rare; therefore, delayed diagnosis easily occurs and is associated with a poor prognosis. Early diagnosis and patented systemic chemotherapy are necessary.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a case of 34-year-old male with facial numbness and diplopia. He was diagnosed with extranodal NK/T cell lymphoma, nasal type, involving the CNS. The tumor, located in the right middle fossa, was subtotally removed, and 3 cycles of systemic chemotherapy were given. He later died of severe neutropenia and infection.

CONCLUSION

NK/T cell lymphomas should be considered to be a potential cause of facial numbness and diplopia. A L-asparaginase-based regimen resulted in reasonable tumor suppression, but adverse effects, including fatal neutropenia, should be carefully considered.