# Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Secondary to Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: A Case Report

**Authors:** Joana Castro Vieira, Ricardo Madeira, Mafalda Maria Santos, João Vieira Afonso, Ana Cristina Teotónio

PMC · DOI: 10.7759/cureus.77492 · Cureus · 2025-01-15

## TL;DR

A 75-year-old man with non-Hodgkin lymphoma developed a severe immune condition called HLH, which improved quickly with steroid treatment.

## Contribution

This case report adds to the understanding of HLH in adults by emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

## Key findings

- Immediate treatment with dexamethasone led to rapid clinical improvement in the patient.
- The case underscores the need for early intervention and structured diagnostic tools in managing HLH.
- HLH in adults is often associated with malignancies like non-Hodgkin lymphoma and requires prompt management.

## Abstract

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a severe hyperinflammatory syndrome characterized by uncontrolled immune activation, often associated with malignancy in adults. Early recognition and prompt initiation of treatment are crucial in managing this condition due to its rapid progression and poor prognosis.

We report the case of a 75-year-old male with suspected lymphoproliferative disease who presented with clinical criteria compatible with HLH. Immediate treatment with dexamethasone led to rapid clinical improvement, and the patient was referred to hematology for continued management of the underlying disease.

This case highlights the importance of constant clinical surveillance, early intervention, and the use of well-structured diagnostic tools in managing this syndrome in adults, where significant diagnostic and treatment challenges remain.

## Linked entities

- **Chemicals:** dexamethasone (PubChem CID 5743)
- **Diseases:** Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (MONDO:0015540), Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (MONDO:0018908)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** malignancy (MESH:D009369), lymphoproliferative disease (MESH:D008232), hyperinflammatory syndrome (MESH:D013577), HLH (MESH:D051359), Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (MESH:D008228)
- **Chemicals:** dexamethasone (MESH:D003907)
- **Species:** Homo sapiens (human, species) [taxon 9606]

## Full text

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## Figures

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## References

19 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11828383/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC11828383