Leukemic phase follicular lymphoma in a young adult. Issue 5 (17th March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rivera, Daniel; Wang, Wei; Al‐Jumaili, Zubaidah; Hu, Zhihong
• Is Part Of: Journal of clinical laboratory analysis. Volume 37:Issue 5(2023)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2023-03-17
• Subjects: BCL2 rearrangement -- follicular lymphoma -- leukemic phase -- lymphocytosis; Diagnosis, Laboratory -- Periodicals; Medical laboratory technology -- Periodicals; 616
• DOI: 10.1002/jcla.24869
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0887-8013

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Leukemic presentation of follicular lymphoma (FL) is uncommon, with most cases reported in older adults. Design: This report describes an unusual case of a young adult diagnosed with leukemic phase of FL. We reviewed the existing literature on this rare presentation of the disease and its potential impact on patient outcomes. Results: Leukemic phase of FL in young adults can be mistaken for other high‐grade hematologic malignancies. Morphology assessment and ancillary testing, such as flow cytometry and FISH analysis, can assist in achieving an accurate diagnosis of the leukemic phase of FL. Notably, our young patient responded well to therapy, which is different from what is typically observed in older patients who have a poorer prognosis. Further cases are needed to investigate the prognostic impact of the leukemic phase of FL in younger patients. Abstract : Leukemic presentation of follicular lymphoma (FL) is uncommon, with most cases reported in older adults. This case report describes an unusual case of a young adult diagnosed with leukemic phase of FL. We also review the existing literature on this rare manifestation of the disease and its potential impact on patient outcomes. It is important to note that leukemic phase of FL in young adults can be mistaken for other high‐grade hematologic malignancies. The use of morphology assessment and ancillary testing, such as flow cytometry and FISH analysis, can aid in making an accurate diagnosis. However, the prognosis for young patients with leukemic phase of FL may differ from older patients, as the literature suggests a poor prognosis in the latter group.