# Monomorphic Epitheliotropic Intestinal T-Cell Lymphoma (MEITL) Causing Small Intestinal Perforation Associated With Adnexal Metastasis: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A rare intestinal T-cell lymphoma caused a bowel perforation and was mistakenly suspected as ovarian cancer, but timely treatment improved the patient's outcome.

## Contribution

This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for MEITL to improve prognosis.

## Key findings

- MEITL can present with gastrointestinal perforation and adnexal metastasis, mimicking ovarian cancer.
- Prompt chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation improved outcomes despite rapid disease progression.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for better prognosis in MEITL patients.

## Abstract

Monomorphic epitheliotropic intestinal T-cell lymphoma (MEITL) is a rare and aggressive form of peripheral T-cell lymphoma originating from intestinal epithelial lymphocytes and is associated with a poor prognosis. We present the case of a 50-year-old woman who developed a gastrointestinal perforation, initially suspected to be due to ovarian cancer with peritoneal dissemination. The patient underwent laparoscopic adnexal resection and laparotomy for the intestinal perforation. Postoperative pathology confirmed that the cause of the intestinal perforation and enlarged adnexa was MEITL. Prompt chemotherapy was administered, followed by autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Despite rapid disease progression, effective management led to favorable treatment outcomes. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial to improve the prognosis of patients with MEITL.