Thyroid B-Cell Lymphoma in the Background of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Case Report and Literature Review

• Published in: Cureus Vol. 16; no. 3; p. e57359
• Main Authors: Ghafouri, Abdullah M, Alzaidi, Suzan, Al-Kaabi, Bader B, Awadh, Mohammed A, Bakhsh, Dohaa, Alharbi, Abdullah
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Published: 01-03-2024
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57359

Primary thyroid lymphoma (PTL) is a rare type of thyroid cancer, comprising less than 5% of all thyroid cancer cases. PTL includes subtypes like diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (MALT). The connection between PTL and autoimmune diseases of the thyroid, particularly Hashimoto's thyroiditis, has gained recognition in recent years. Studies have indicated an increased incidence of PTL among individuals with Hashimoto's thyroiditis. However, effectively recognizing and managing PTL in the context of autoimmune thyroid diseases remains challenging. Further research and clinical experience are needed to develop comprehensive strategies for early detection and optimal management of this complex condition. In a case involving an 88-year-old female diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, she presented with a complaint of persistent neck swelling for five years. The patient also experienced symptoms such as dysphagia, hoarseness of voice, obstructive sleep apnea, and choking attacks. Surgical resection of the neck swelling was successfully performed, and the patient was referred to the oncology department for further treatment. Thyroid B-cell lymphoma is an exceedingly rare form of thyroid cancer, typically identified in individuals who have a history of Hashimoto's thyroiditis. The prognosis for thyroid B-cell lymphoma is generally unfavorable, and surgical intervention remains the primary treatment approach for such cases.