Primary lymphoma of the prostate treated with rituximab-based chemotherapy: a case report and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION: Primary lymphoma of the prostate is very rare. In this paper we present a case of early stage non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the prostate managed with six cycles of rituximab-based chemotherapy, and review the related literature. CASE PRESENTATION: An 84-year-old man was admitted to our hospital having signs and symptoms suggestive of prostatic disease for 3 years. Histological and immunocytochemical studies of trans-urethral biopsy of the prostate showed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Radiological assessment of disease confirmed the diagnosis of early stage lymphoma of the prostate. The patient was managed by 6 of rituximab 375 mg/m(2 )on day 1, cyclophosphamide 750 mg/m(2 )on day 1, doxorubicin 50 mg/m(2 )on day 1, vincristine 1.4 mg/m(2 )on day 1, and prednisone 50 mg/m(2 )on days 1 to 5 with complete clinical and radiological response. He remained disease free, until now, 30 months after the end of chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: According to the literature, the treatment and prognosis of primary lymphoma of the prostate is the same as that of other nodal lymphomas. Rituximab-based regimen should be considered in the management of prostatic diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.