Radiological features of primary pulmonary non-Hodgkin lymphoma: report of three cases

Objective: To describe the radiographic and CT findings of primary pulmonary non-Hodgkin lymphoma (PPL),and to evaluate percutanous transthoracic needle biopsy (PTNB) in the diagnosis of PPL.

Methods: Chest radiographs and CT scans of three patients with histologically proven PPL were reviewed. The diagnosis of PPL was confirmed histologically with specimens obtained by means of PTNB.

Results: Consolidation with air bronchograms on the chest X-ray films and CT scans was found in all cases. Multiple ill-defined nodules of various size in both lungs and a mass with air bronchogram in the right lower lobe on the CT scan were present in one case. Ground-glass opacity or reticular lesions were present in both lung fields. Hilar/mediastinal adenopathy and pericardial/pleural effusion were not features of these cases. PTNB was diagnostic in all three cases. No complications occurred during these procedures.

Conclusions: PPL has some specific imaging features. Radiographic and CT findings are helpful in the diagnosis of primary pulmonary malignant lymphoma. A specific diagnosis can be obtained by means of PTNB.