Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma occurring in various sites, but rarely involving the ureters. Primary DLBCL is a rare entity. Imaging studies in a 82-year-old male patient revealed left hydronephrosis and an area of nodular soft tissue density in the upper ureteral wall. On enhanced computed tomography scans, the lesion exhibited early enhancement. As the lesion was considered to be malignant, a left nephroureterectomy was performed for the purpose of pathological diagnosis. Histological analysis and immunohistochemistry revealed DLBCL. Since the surgery, the patient has survived for 16 months without evidence of a relapse. Thus, in cases with ureteral stenosis or obstruction for which the cause is uncertain, the possibility of primary lymphoma of the ureter should be considered and further histopathological examination of bioptic samples should be performed as soon as possible.
Keywords: computed tomography; primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma; ureter.