Anaplastic large cell lymphoma in a human immunodeficiency virus-positive patient with cytologic findings in bladder wash: a case report

Abstract

Background: Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) (Ki-1/CD-30 positive) is an uncommon lymphoproliferative disorder that may be of T cell or null cell type. ALCL has been reported in fine needle aspirations of lymph nodes and pleural or peritoneal fluid cytology. In human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive patients, ALCL appears to be more common and run a more aggressive course.

Case: A 39-year-old black man, seropositive for HIV, presented with acute renal failure secondary to bilateral ureteral obstruction by a pelvic mass involving the urinary bladder. Bladder wash cytology and subsequent biopsy of the mass were diagnostic of ALCL. The ALCL was CD30+ and null cell type, with negative CD2, CD3, CD4, CD5, CD7, CD8, CD20, CD45, CD79a, ALK-1, granzyme B, cytokeratin (AE1/AE3), placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) and S-100. The patient expired 9 months after the diagnosis, despite aggressive therapy.

Conclusion: This is a rare occurrence of ALCL (CD 30 positive, null cell type) in the urinary bladder in an HIV+ patient. Presumptive diagnosis was made by bladder wash cytology and subsequently confirmed by biopsy. Urinary cytologic examination is a useful diagnostic tool. In HIV+/immunosuppressed patients with urinary symptoms and an obstructive mass, ALCL should be considered in the differential diagnosis.