Male Hodgkin lymphoma of breast: report of one case and review of literature

Abstract

Objective To discuss the incidence, clinical features, diagnostic methods, treatment and prognostic factors of Hodgkin lymphoma of breast. Methods The clinical data, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of one male patient diagnosed as Hodgkin lymphoma of breast were retrospectively analyzed, and literatures were reviewed. Results The 71-year-old male patient had a main physical sign of a local painless lump in breast. The lump increased progressively, associated with generalized lymphadenopathy, skin itching and sweats. Pathologic results showed the diagnosis of classical Hodgkin lymphoma (Ann Arbor stage: ⅢEB). The patient eventually died after 7 months following the combined chemotherapy. Conclusions Hodgkin lymphoma of breast is a rare disease lacking in specific clinical manifestations. It is difficult to clarify the diagnosis before operation, and its definite diagnosis largely depends on pathological and immunohistochemical examination. The combination of chemotherapy with radiotherapy may have a favorable efficacy, with the poor diagnosis. Key words: Hodgkin lymphoma; Breast neoplasms; Male