# Pericardial fluid cytology as a diagnostic tool for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a case report

## TL;DR

A rare case of primary cardiac lymphoma was diagnosed using pericardial fluid cytology, avoiding more invasive procedures.

## Contribution

The case demonstrates the diagnostic value of pericardial fluid cytology in identifying primary cardiac lymphoma.

## Key findings

- Pericardial fluid cytology confirmed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in a patient with cardiac symptoms.
- The patient achieved remission after chemotherapy without needing an endomyocardial biopsy.
- Accurate cytological evaluation can lead to early diagnosis of rare cardiac lymphomas.

## Abstract

Primary cardiac lymphoma represents an extremely rare entity of extranodal non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

We report the case of a woman who presented with dyspnea, asthenia, chest pain, cough, and odynophagia. Investigations revealed a diffuse large B-cell lymphomas type primary cardiac lymphoma through cytological examination of pericardial fluid. Confirmatory diagnosis was established through cytology of pericardial effusion, supported by imaging techniques. The patient completed all cycles of chemotherapy and is currently in remission.

This case highlights the essential role of accurate cytological evaluation by laboratory professionals, which can facilitate early diagnosis and may obviate the need for more invasive procedures such as endomyocardial biopsy.