Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with initial symptoms of myelofibrosis treated with rituximab: a case report and literature review

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that develops from the B cells of the lymphatic system. The first symptom of DLBCL is usually painless swelling of lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, groin or abdomen. Patients may also experience fevers, night sweats and unexplained weight loss. Here, we reported a 73-year-old man with DLBCL. Specifically, initial myelofibrosis-related symptoms were considered at the time of onset. After 11 cycles of chemotherapy with rituximab, the patient achieved complete remission. This case suggests that elderly patients treated with rituximab could achieve significant effects, although myelofibrosis was their first symptom.