Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma presenting as rapidly progressive dementia and stroke: A case report

Rationale: Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a rare form of large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. The diagnosis is challenging and frequently made at biopsy. Here we reported a case of IVLBCL limited to the central nervous system (CNS) presenting with progressive dementia and acute stroke, who was diagnosed by brain biopsy.

Patient concerns: A 47-year-old woman was transferred to our hospital with a 6-month history of rapidly progressive dementia, and left limb weakness and numbness for 3 days. She was successively misdiagnosed with inflammatory demyelinating disease and stroke. Her condition deteriorated with elevated lactate dehydrogenase and multiple hyperintense lesions on the brain.

Diagnosis: She was diagnosed with IVLBCL limited to the CNS by brain biopsy.

Interventions: Bone marrow puncture and incisional random skin biopsy were not found neoplastic cells. Computed tomography scans were normal with no evidence of disease outside the CNS.

Outcomes: The patient died due to rapid clinical aggravation.

Lessons: IVLBCL limited to the CNS is an aggressive disease with high mortality. Making a timely and correct diagnosis is crucial for early appropriate treatment in IVLBCL patients.