Primary Cardiac Lymphoma Presenting as a Right Ventricular Mass With Outflow Obstruction

Primary cardiac lymphoma (PCL) is an exceedingly rare malignant non-Hodgkin lymphoma. It represents <2% of primary cardiac tumors often with nonspecific symptoms that may delay diagnosis. An 83-year-old woman with hypertension and hypothyroidism presented with progressive dyspnea and fatigue. The initial differential diagnosis was concerning for pulmonary embolism or right-heart failure. Echocardiography revealed a 6 × 7-cm right ventricular mass causing right ventricular outflow tract obstruction and right-sided heart failure. Computed tomography confirmed the presence of a mass, and biopsy identified CD20+ B-cell lymphoma. After a multidisciplinary discussion, she was started on high-dose corticosteroids with subsequent chemotherapy with R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone). This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of PCL in the elderly and underscores the necessity of early multimodality imaging and coordinated care. A review of the literature shows that prompt recognition and treatment are essential for improving outcomes in this rare malignancy. Early diagnosis via comprehensive imaging and biopsy along with a multidisciplinary approach for management are all crucial steps in early detection and treatment of PCL, particularly in elderly patients.