# Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Within a Breast Abscess in a Male Patient: A Presentation and Literature Review of a Rare Case

## TL;DR

A rare case of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was found in a male patient initially diagnosed with a breast abscess.

## Contribution

Highlights the importance of considering rare malignancies in male breast lesions presenting as abscesses.

## Key findings

- A 59-year-old diabetic male presented with a breast abscess that was later diagnosed as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
- Histopathology confirmed high-grade diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in the axillary lymph node.
- The case emphasizes the need for thorough evaluation of male breast lesions to avoid misdiagnosis.

## Abstract

Breast abscesses are a common cause of presentation to the hospital. These should be treated with caution due to the possibility of rare pathology.

We present a rare case of a 59-year-old diabetic gentleman who presented to the emergency department with a two-day history of a large right-sided breast swelling along with an area of induration, consistent with an abscess, extending to the right axillary region. Initial laboratory findings revealed elevated inflammatory markers. He was admitted for intravenous antibiotics.

A computed tomography (CT) of the thorax performed on admission showed an ill-defined collection in the subcutaneous tissue of the right breast and axilla and an irregular right-sided peribronchial nodule with multiple enlarged pathological lymph nodes.

This patient's case was discussed with tertiary specialist breast services and local respiratory teams. He underwent an ultrasound-guided right axillary lymph node biopsy. The histopathology of this revealed a high-grade malignant non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the diffuse large B-cell (DLBCL) type. He was referred for a positron emission tomography (PET) scan and hematological oncology services for further treatment in the form of chemotherapy.

This case presentation brings forward the importance of considering rare diagnoses and unusual histopathology when assessing a male breast lesion.