Nasal-type extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma presenting as recurrent periorbital cellulitis

BMJ Case Rep. 2021 Apr 1;14(4):e238113. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2020-238113.

Abstract

Nasal-type extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTCL) is a rare disease with a poor prognosis. It has features similar to other granulomatous and infectious diseases of the nose and paranasal sinuses, which can make diagnosis challenging and delayed. We present a case of 38-year-old man who was admitted to the hospital on three occasions over a 3-month period for right periorbital erythema, nasal congestion and discharge. Following two separate surgical debridement and biopsies, ENKTCL was diagnosed and the patient was commenced on chemoradiotherapy. The case highlights the atypical nature of his presentation and the high degree of suspicion for a pathological process that must be maintained to formulate the diagnosis.

Keywords: cancer - see oncology; ear; haematology (drugs and medicines); head and neck cancer; nose and throat/otolaryngology; otolaryngology / ENT.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biopsy
  • Cellulitis
  • Chemoradiotherapy
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Extranodal NK-T-Cell* / drug therapy
  • Lymphoma, Extranodal NK-T-Cell* / therapy
  • Male
  • Nose Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Nose Neoplasms* / therapy