A Rare Cause Of Pediatric Bilateral Tonsil Hypertrophy: Lymphoma

Tonsillar malignancies are exceptionally rare in the pediatric population, with non-Hodgkin lymphoma being the most frequent type when they do occur. While asymmetric tonsillar enlargement and rapid growth are classic warning signs, bilateral involvement and atypical presentations are possible. We report the case of an 8-year-old boy who presented with bilateral grade 4 tonsillar hypertrophy, cryptic changes, and necrotic-appearing white plaques, but without constitutional symptoms or cervical lymphadenopathy. Despite empirical antibiotic therapy, symptoms persisted. Histopathological evaluation of a punch biopsy revealed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, confirmed by immunohistochemistry. The patient was subsequently referred to pediatric oncology, where chemotherapy was initiated. This case highlights the necessity of maintaining suspicion for malignancy in pediatric patients with persistent tonsillar hypertrophy, even in the absence of asymmetry or classic risk factors. Early biopsy of suspicious tonsillar lesions is crucial for prompt diagnosis and initiation of appropriate therapy, potentially improving outcomes in this rare but aggressive disease.