Indonesian Journal of Endocrinology Metabolism and Diabetes (InaJEMD)
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2025): InaJEMD Vol. 2, No. 2

Unexpected Histological Finding of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma in a Patient with Long-standing Goiter and Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: A Case Report

Dhinar Kemas Ariawidjaja (Unknown)
Mohammad Robikhul Ikhsan (Unknown)
Hemi Sinorita (Unknown)
Raden Bowo Pramono (Unknown)
Vina Yanti Susanti (Unknown)
Rayhani Erika Putri (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
01 Dec 2025

Abstract

Primary thyroid lymphoma (PTL) is an uncommon malignancy, comprising less than 5% of all thyroid cancers. Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is the most significant risk factor, increasing the risk of developing PTL by 40 to 80 times. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most prevalent and aggressive histological subtype, accounting for over 50% of PTL cases. The diagnosis is challenging, as the clinical and sonographic features of PTL can mimic benign thyroiditis. A 60-year-old female with a three-year history of a progressively enlarging goiter and worsening compressive symptoms presented for surgical evaluation. Initial investigations revealed severe hypothyroidism and ultrasound findings of a nodular goiter with features of thyroiditis (TI-RADS 3). She underwent a total thyroidectomy for symptomatic relief. Postoperative histopathology unexpectedly revealed a DLBCL, confirmed by CD20 positivity, coexisting with a background of classic HT. The patient was subsequently treated with six cycles of R-CHOP (Rituximab, Cyclophosphamide, Doxorubicin, Vincristine, and Prednisone) chemoimmunotherapy and achieved a complete clinical and radiological response. This case underscores the diagnostic challenge PTL presents, particularly in patients with preexisting HT. A high index of suspicion is crucial for clinicians managing HT patients who present with a rapidly enlarging goiter or worsening compressive symptoms. While fine-needle aspiration has limitations, definitive diagnosis often requires a core needle or excisional biopsy to differentiate neoplastic infiltration from the benign lymphocytic infiltrate of HT.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

journal

Publisher

Subject

Health Professions Medicine & Pharmacology Public Health

Description

Indonesian Journal of Endocrinology Metabolism and Diabetes (InaJEMD) is an open accessed online journal and comprehensive peer-reviewed medical journal published by the Indonesian Society of Endocrinology since 2024. Our main mission is to publish and disseminate research results that are relevant ...