Imaging findings of metallic implants associated lymphoma

Abstract

Purpose Chronic inflammatory condition such as metallic implants insertion state has relevance to develop diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). The purpose of this study is to introduce the imaging features of the metallic implants associated lymphoma. Materials and Methods In 2016 September, a 58 years-old male underwent high tibial osteotomy at right leg after took a knee magnetic resonance image (MRI). After 15 months later, he underwent hardware removal operation. 2 weeks later after operation, he complained right leg pain and swelling. He was hospitalized and radiologic studies including ultrasound (US) and MRI were performed. Soft tissue mass in right popliteal fossa was seen and US-guided biopsy was done to confirm the mass. Results MRI which was taken after hardware removal, showed iso to slightly low signal intensity on T1 weighted image(WI), high signal intensity on T2WI with diffuse marrow involvement and heterogeneous patchy enhancement in right proximal tibia. Also extensive extraosseous soft tissue component was seen, with relatively preserved trabecular pattern in proximal tibia. This intraosseous and extraosseous lesions were not seen in previous MRI which taken before high tibial osteotomy. On US image, it was showed heterogeneous hypoechoic and hypervascular lesion in popliteal fossa of left lower leg. US guided biopsy was done on extraosseous soft tissue mass in left popliteal fossa. It was histologically confirmed as DLBCL. Conclusion Hypoechoic and hypervascular disproportionally large extraosseous soft tissue mass without prominent bone destruction is preferential finding of bone lymphoma. Lymphoma should be considered above all, when these findings were seen in patient who has metallic implant.