Primary pulmonary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with multiple ground-glass nodules as the primary manifestation: A case report

INTRODUCTION: Primary pulmonary lymphoma (PPL) is a rare extranodal lymphoma. Only 5% to 20% of patients suffering from PPL have diffuse large β-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), and their chest computed tomography (CT) findings show single- or double-lung patchy or flocculated shadows, isolated or multifocal nodules, or masses. In this research paper, we report an older woman having multiple ground-glass nodules, who was eventually diagnosed with primary pulmonary diffuse large β-cell lymphoma (PPDLBCL). PATIENT CONCERNS: A 69-year-old woman suffering from cough was admitted to the Second Hospital of Jilin University. DIAGNOSES: A chest CT scan showed multiple ground-glass nodules. She had received 2 weeks of antibiotic treatment, but the multiple ground-glass nodules were still present. Lung biopsy was performed by tracheoscopy, which showed non-Hodgkin diffuse large β-cell lymphoma. INTERVENTIONS: The patient received R-CHOP-21 chemotherapy. OUTCOMES: The multiple ground-glass nodules were absorbed. CONCLUSION: The current study shows that spotting multiple ground-glass nodules in the lungs is a clear indication of the presence of PPDLBCL. It is important to spread awareness of PPDLBCL, which needs timely diagnosis and management.