Work

Low-grade B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma in the sternocleidomastoid muscle: a case report and review of literature

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Primary non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) arising in skeletal muscle is exceedingly rare. We present a case of low-grade B-cell NHL involving the sternocleidomastoid muscle. A 67-year-old male presented with an asymptomatic, slowly growing left neck mass. Imaging revealed a 17 mm × 11 mm intramuscular nodule, initially suggestive of a benign lesion. Excisional biopsy demonstrated lymphoid proliferation with muscle infiltration. Immunohistochemistry revealed CD20(+), PAX5(+), BCL2(+), and monoclonal IgH rearrangement, consistent with low-grade B-cell NHL, most likely extranodal marginal zone lymphoma (ENMZL), non-gastric/non-cutaneous type. Staging confirmed Lugano stage I disease. Given the indolent nature, the patient was managed with active surveillance. This case highlights an unusual intramuscular presentation of NHL, emphasizing the importance of histopathological and molecular evaluation for accurate diagnosis and tailored management.

Source: Frontiers in Oncology

DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2026.1723488

Authors: Guiping Peng, Xiang Wang, Miao Dai

Institution: Jiujiang First People's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Lymphoma Diagnosis and Treatment

Subfield: Pathology and Forensic Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801