Primary cardiac lymphoma in HIV infected patients: A clinicopathological report of two cases

Introduction and importance: Due to advances in diagnostic methods and human immunodeficiency virus, there has been a recent increase in cardiac involvement by lymphoma.

Case presentation case 1: 15-year-old HIV infected male patient presented with features of heart failure and cardiac tamponade. The transthoracic echocardiogram showed pericardial effusion and a right atrioventricular mass. The resected tumour was confirmed to be diffuse large b-cell lymphoma on histopathology. Unfortunately, the patient died few hours after surgery. Case 2: 30-year-old HIV infected pregnant female presented with features of cardiac tamponade. The transthoracic echocardiogram showed pericardial effusion with right atrial mass. The resected tumour was confirmed to be Burkitt's lymphoma on histopathology. She was successfully treated with chemotherapy.

Clinical discussion: Cardiac lymphomas are rare with most cases diagnosed on autopsy. However, advances in diagnostic methods has increased antemortem diagnosis with subsequent optimal management. Majority of the cases are of B-cell lineage, although T-cell origin has been reported.

Conclusion: A high index of suspicion of cardiac lymphoma should be maintained in the right clinical setting in order to receive adequate attention and management.