Chromosomal Abnormalities as a Predisposition to Secondary Neurolymphomatosis in Patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma: A Report of Two Cases and a Literature Review

Introduction: Neurolymphomatosis (NL) is a rare condition characterized by the infiltration of malignant lymphoma cells into the peripheral nervous system. The optimal treatment for NL remains unclear, and patients with secondary NL have a poor prognosis. Although early recognition of NL may contribute to successful treatment, the predictive factors for secondary NL are yet to be established.

Case presentation: Here, we present our investigation on the predictive factors for secondary NL, and report two cases of secondary NL with a literature review. We analyzed chromosomal abnormalities in patients with secondary NL and found a common deletion of chromosome 10 and add(11)(p11). The chromosomal abnormalities might be a predictive factor for secondary NL; therefore, confirmation of chromosomal abnormalities can possibly give a hint for early detect of secondary NL. Prompt histopathological examination or imaging techniques can lead to early diagnosis of secondary NL in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Conclusion: When neurological symptoms manifest in patients with DLBCL and there are chromosomal abnormalities, the possible development of secondary NL should be considered.