Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: Presentation at an Early Age

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a clinical entity that constitutes a large part of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). It usually presents as a rapidly growing mass or with enlarged lymph nodes in a nodal or extranodal location. It most frequently affects Caucasians, with a male preponderance and an average age of onset of around 60 years. The patient, in this case, was a young adult, with irrelevant personal and family history, who presented with sudden onset abdominal pain and asthenia. An objective examination of the abdomen demonstrated a hard mass in the region of the lower quadrants that caused pain when touched. Given the patient's non-specific symptoms and age, it would be more likely to think about less complex diagnoses; however, a thorough observation of the patient led to the possibility of a less likely diagnosis. This case highlights the importance of a detailed anamnesis and an attentive and targeted objective examination in order to guarantee a correct diagnosis.