DIFFICULTIES OF DIFFERENTIAL SEARCH FOR NODULAR LYMPHOID HYPERPLASIA OF THE GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT

Abstract

Nodular lymphoid hyperplasia of the gastrointestinal tract is characterized by the presence of many small nodules, usually 2 to 10 mm in diameter, located more frequently in the small intestine, stomach, colon, or rectum. The pathogenesis is largely unknown, and the occurrence is possible in all age groups, quite common in children, and may affect adults with or without immunodeficiency. In some cases, patients may have comorbidities, namely common variable immunodeficiency, selective IgA deficiency, Giardia intestinalis, celiac disease, Helicobacter pylori, and less often human immunodeficiency virus. Recently, data have appeared on the detection of nodular lymphoid hyperplasia in patients who have undergone COVID-19. Nodular lymphoid hyperplasia is usually asymptomatic but can cause a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, chronic diarrhea, bleeding, or ileus. Diagnosis is by endoscopy or barium contrast and must be confirmed by pathological findings. Nodular lymphoid hyperplasia is a risk factor for both intestinal and, very rarely, extraintestinal lymphoma.