Stroke Mimicking Encephalopathy as an Initial Manifestation of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

BACKGROUND: Systemic lymphoma can be difficult to recognize due to its diverse manifestations. Paraneoplastic leukoencephalopathy has rarely been reported in the context of lymphoma. CASE REPORT: We report a 45-year-old man with systemic lymphoma whose initial manifestation was sudden-onset leukoencephalopathy, mimicking stroke. This patient, who was eventually diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, initially presented with sudden cognitive impairment and gait disturbance. Radiological studies suggested a paraneoplastic leukoencephalopathy. Chemotherapy for lymphoma resulted in clinical and radiological improvement. CONCLUSIONS: The presented case indicates that diffuse large B-cell lymphoma may initially appear as a treatable leukoencephalopathy.