Primary Hepatic Lymphoma Is Difficult to Discriminate from a Liver Abscess

Abstract EN

An 82-year-old woman presented with a high-grade fever of 40°C and was admitted to our institution for intensive examination and treatment.

Noncontrast abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed low-density masses at segments 5 and 8, suggestive of a liver abscess.

On further examination, a contrast-enhanced abdominal CT showed a 30×30 mm mass with an enhanced margin at segment 8 in the arterial phase; the contrast agents were washed out in the venous phase.

In addition, a 63×52 mm mass with a density lower than that of liver parenchyma was observed at segment 8 in the portal phase.

On the basis of these findings, either a liver abscess or hepatocellular carcinoma was suspected.

To confirm the diagnosis, a fine needle biopsy was scheduled.

Histopathological analysis of the biopsied specimens confirmed the diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

Chemotherapy was not indicated owing to the patient’s age and poor performance status; thus, best supportive care was planned.

On day 22 after admission, the patient died of pneumonia.

We experienced a case of PHL that was difficult to discriminate from a liver abscess.

Imaging alone is insufficient to diagnose PHL; therefore, fine needle biopsy is recommended for a definitive diagnosis.