Radical Radiotherapy for Primary Extranodal Lymphoma of the Tonsil: A Case Report

Abstract

Primary non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) typically arises within lymph nodes, but 20-30% of cases involve extranodal sites. NHL of Waldeyer’s ring is uncommon, with the palatine tonsils being the most frequently affected site. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common high-grade, rapidly growing NHL, accounting for approximately 80% of cases in some studies. For aggressive, localized extranodal lymphoma, systemic therapy is the primary treatment modality unless patients are unfit or decline such treatment. This case report describes a 71-year-old man who presented with left tonsillar swelling, dysphagia, and voice change for 10 days. He was diagnosed with localized primary extranodal NHL - DLBCL of the left tonsil. Due to his advanced age and multiple comorbidities, he was deemed unfit for chemotherapy. He received radical radiotherapy as the primary treatment. During treatment, he experienced symptom relief and responded well to the radiation therapy. He is currently under regular follow-up.