Case Report: Fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphoma developing within a cystic lesion of the adrenal gland: unexpected guest - Report - MDSpire

Case Report: Fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphoma developing within a cystic lesion of the adrenal gland: unexpected guest

  • By

  • Haneen Al-Maghrabi

  • Bayan Ali Alghamdi

  • May 8, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Development of Fibrin-Associated Large B-Cell Lymphoma

Overview

This report presents a rare case of fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphoma (FA-LBCL) originating from cystic lymphangiomatous lesions in the adrenal gland of a 42-year-old female. The findings highlight the diagnostic challenges and the importance of recognizing this lymphoma subtype as a distinct entity.

Background

Fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphoma (FA-LBCL) is a rare malignancy linked to Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and characterized by its occurrence in areas of chronic fibrin accumulation. It has been classified as a separate entity in the WHO classification, emphasizing the need for awareness among clinicians due to its atypical presentation and potential for misdiagnosis. Understanding FA-LBCL is crucial for appropriate management and treatment outcomes.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data is presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • FA-LBCL is recognized as a distinct entity in the WHO classification of hematolymphoid tumors.
  • The case involved a 42-year-old female with incidental diagnosis during adrenalectomy.
  • FA-LBCL typically arises in chronic inflammatory contexts, often without forming a distinct mass.
  • Histological examination revealed sparse aggregates of malignant cells within a cystic lesion.
  • EBV positivity is commonly associated with FA-LBCL, contributing to its pathogenesis.
  • Diagnostic challenges exist due to the rarity and atypical presentation of FA-LBCL.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for FA-LBCL in patients with cystic lesions of the adrenal gland, particularly when associated with chronic inflammation. Thorough histological sampling and immunophenotyping are essential for accurate diagnosis and differentiation from other lymphomas.

Conclusion

This case underscores the importance of recognizing FA-LBCL as a distinct lymphoma subtype, particularly in atypical presentations. Enhanced awareness and diagnostic strategies are necessary to improve patient outcomes.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Cushing's syndrome linked to unilateral multiple adrenal adenomas as a rare extraintestinal complication of familial adenomatous polyposis, Springer, 2008 -- Title
  2. Radiological and Clinical Characteristics of Uncommon Adrenal Masses: Insights from a Multicenter Retrospective Analysis, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2025 -- Title
  3. Lung Adenocarcinoma with ALK Rearrangement Manifesting as Carcinoma of Unknown Origin: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment, Drugs - Real World Outcomes, 2016 -- Title
  4. An Uncommon Etiology of Sudden Cardiac Arrest: Primary Cardiac Lymphoma, Clinical Research in Cardiology, 2009 -- Title
  5. Fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphoma arising in a cystic lymphangiomatous lesion of the adrenal gland: A case report and overview of the entity, ScienceDirect, 2025 -- Title
  6. Fibrin-associated large B-cell lymphoma overview, ScienceDirect
  7. https://academic.oup.com/jscr/article/doi/10.1093/jscr/rjag057/8510281
  8. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in the new era: prognostic tools for mapping risk | Annals of Hematology | Springer Nature Link

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