ALK + anaplastic large cell lymphoma involving the bladder: case report and review of the literature

Diagn Pathol. 2024 Dec 18;19(1):157. doi: 10.1186/s13000-024-01585-z.

Abstract

We reported a case of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALK + ALCL) involving the bladder. The patient was a 27-year-old female, whose main clinical symptoms included fever, painless lymphadenopathy, and hematuria. Imaging studies suggested a bladder mass. The bladder mass was maximally resected through transurethral bladder tumor resection. The pathology report indicated a malignant tumor of the bladder. Based on immunohistochemical and gene rearrangement results, the diagnosis was confirmed as ALK + ALCL. After undergoing five cycles of treatment with the BV + CHP chemotherapy regimen, the patient's condition is currently stable, and no tumor recurrence was observed upon re-examination. ALK + ALCL involving the bladder is very rare, and early diagnosis is challenging. By reviewing the diagnostic and treatment process of this patient, and in conjunction with a review of modern literature on the disease's incidence characteristics, treatment protocols, and prognosis, this aims to provide a reference for clinicians in diagnosing and treating this condition, thereby reducing delays.

Keywords: ALCL; ALK + ALCL; Bladder; Lymphoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase* / genetics
  • Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase* / metabolism
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Female
  • Gene Rearrangement
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Lymphoma, Large-Cell, Anaplastic* / diagnosis
  • Lymphoma, Large-Cell, Anaplastic* / pathology
  • Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases / metabolism
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Urinary Bladder Neoplasms* / pathology

Substances

  • Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase
  • ALK protein, human
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Receptor Protein-Tyrosine Kinases