Disseminated appendicular lymphoma presenting as acute appendicitis: a case report

Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2024 Jan 4;86(2):1224-1228. doi: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000001679. eCollection 2024 Feb.

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency marked by appendix inflammation, presenting as acute abdominal pain and typically treated with appendectomy. The authors report a rare case of disseminated appendicular lymphoma presenting as acute appendicitis. Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency.

Case presentation: This case involved a 75-year-old male patient who underwent appendectomy, revealing an enlarged appendix with lymphomatous nodules.

Clinical discussion: Lymphoma involvement in the appendix is extremely rare, and lymphomas presenting as acute appendicitis are even more exceptional. Imaging investigations, including ultrasound and CECT scan of the abdomen, are recommended to aid in diagnosis. On computed tomography, appendiceal lymphoma is characterized by markedly diffuse mural soft-tissue thickening with preserved vermiform morphology and occasional aneurysmal dilatation of the lumen.

Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of considering unusual etiologies in atypical appendicitis presentations.

Keywords: Acute appendicitis; appendix; case reports; lymphoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports