Case Report: Diagnostic pitfall and biomarker-guided therapy in CD20-negative Epstein–Barr virus-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma - Scorecard - MDSpire
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Case Study: Challenges in Diagnosis and Biomarker-Driven Treatment of CD20-Negative Epstein–Barr Virus-Positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

  • By

  • Jingjing Wen

  • Chenxing Zhao

  • Shaozhen Chen

  • Xiurong Chen

  • Qinghu Lv

  • Wei Liu

  • Jiesong Wang

  • Daoguang Chen

  • August 24, 2026

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Clinical Scorecard: Case Study: Challenges in Diagnosis and Biomarker-Driven Treatment of CD20-Negative Epstein–Barr Virus-Positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionCD20-Negative Epstein–Barr Virus-Positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Key MechanismsCharacterized by EBER positivity and absence of CD20 expression, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
Target PopulationPatients with CD20-negative EBV+ DLBCL, NOS.
Care SettingOncology and hematology clinical settings.

Key Highlights

  • EBV+ DLBCL, NOS, lacking CD20 expression complicates diagnosis and therapy.
  • Integrated immunophenotypic and molecular analyses are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
  • Biomarker-driven treatment led to a complete metabolic response.
  • The case emphasizes the need for CD20-independent treatment strategies.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Utilize integrated immunohistochemistry and molecular analysis for accurate lineage assignment.

Management

  • Consider CD30-targeted therapy and PD-1 blockade in treatment.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Regular assessment of EBV-DNA levels and imaging for disease progression.

Risks

  • Potential for misdiagnosis due to absence of conventional B-cell markers.

Patient & Prescribing Data

76-year-old male with CD20-negative EBV+ DLBCL, NOS.

Received Brentuximab Vedotin plus CHP chemotherapy and Tislelizumab for 6 cycles.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Perform repeat biopsies when initial diagnoses are uncertain.
  • Incorporate biomarker analysis in treatment planning for lymphomas.

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