MRI features of primary pancreatic lymphoma in a young child: a case report

Primary pancreatic lymphoma is a rare type of extranodal lymphoma that originates within the pancreas. It is exceptionally uncommon in the pediatric population and requires a high index of suspicion for timely diagnosis. Differentiating Primary pancreatic lymphoma from other pancreatic tumors is crucial, as it is primarily managed with chemotherapy rather than surgical intervention. Magnetic resonance imaging, with its superior soft-tissue contrast and multiplanar capabilities, plays a pivotal role in identifying characteristic features of lymphoma. These include a well-defined, homogenous hypo-enhancing mass, evidence of diffusion restriction, and the absence of pancreatic ductal dilatation or parenchymal atrophy, all of which can support early and accurate diagnosis. We present a case of pathologically confirmed primary pancreatic lymphoma in a 3-year-old girl who initially presented with a dry cough of 3 weeks' duration. The pancreatic mass was incidentally discovered on a chest CT scan performed to investigate her respiratory symptoms, and an MRI further characterized the lesion before histologic confirmation.