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Review
. 2025 May;104(5):3001-3006.
doi: 10.1007/s00277-025-06260-x. Epub 2025 Apr 3.

Radiotherapy alone with curative intent in a case of limited-stage extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma nasal type: a case report and review of the literature

Biancamaria Mandelli  1 , Donatella Caivano  2   3 , Antonella Fontana  4 , Natalia Cenfra  5 , Sergio Mecarocci  5 , Maristella Marrocco  6 , David Fanciullo  7 , Roberta Mazzarella  7 , Martina Lorenzon  7 , Giada Pacitto  7 , Alessandro Pulsoni  5
Affiliations
Review

Radiotherapy alone with curative intent in a case of limited-stage extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma nasal type: a case report and review of the literature

Biancamaria Mandelli et al. Ann Hematol. 2025 May.

Abstract

Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type (ENKTCL-NT), is an aggressive malignancy primarily affecting the sinonasal region, with a strong association with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. The disease is significantly more prevalent in Asian and Latin American populations. Diagnosis is particularly challenging in nonendemic regions. We present the case of a 78-year-old male with a one-year history of nasal lesions, later diagnosed with ENKTCL-NT. The patient was treated with curative-intent radiotherapy, achieving a complete clinical response. Radiation therapy, particularly utilizing advanced techniques such as Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT), resulted in favorable outcomes with minimal toxicity. This case emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, accurate staging, and personalized radiotherapy in the management of ENKTCL-NT. Ongoing research into the molecular pathogenesis, treatment strategies, and prognostic factors is crucial for improving outcomes, particularly in advanced-stage disease.

Keywords: Early diagnosis; Epstein-Barr virus; Extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma; Nasal type; Personalized treatment; Radiotherapy; Volumetric modulated arc therapy.

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Conflict of interest statement

Declarations. Ethical approval: Ethical considerations for this case report have been rigorously followed, ensuring patient confidentiality and obtaining informed consent in accordance with institutional guidelines, ethical standards for medical research publication, and the principles outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Consent to publish: In accordance with the journal’s policies, the authors consent to the publication of this manuscript and confirm that all necessary permissions for third-party materials have been obtained. Additionally, since the manuscript includes details, images, or videos of an individual, explicit consent for publication has been obtained from the individual involved. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
The distribution of doses (absolute doses)
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
The arch geometry
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Rhinomegaly on the frontal (A) e lateral side (B) at baseline of radiotherapy. Nose as returned to on the frontal (D) and lateral side (C) one year after treatment
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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