HIV-related extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma presenting as a bronchial mass: Case report

We describe a case of human herpesvirus-8 (HHV8) associated extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) in a 52-year-old man who initially presented with long-term nonproductive cough, fever, night sweats and loss of weight. Initial blood tests were positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) with CD4 + T-lymphocytes count of 42/mm3. Respiratory opportunistic diseases were excluded. Additional investigation with bronchoscopy revealed a bronchial mass that was biopsied. Histology and immunohistochemical tests confirmed extracavitary PEL associated with HHV-8. Antiretroviral treatment and CHOP regimen chemotherapy was initiated with an effective response. Given its rarity and unusual presentation, this clinical case emphasizes the importance of considering PEL, along with other lymphoproliferative disorders, as a differential diagnosis in patients living with HIV with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) with a bronchial mass.