Clinical features and management of primary colonic lymphoma

SummaryMost primary colonic lymphomas are non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, most especially diffuse and large B-cell lymphomas, and constitute only 0.2–0.6% of all colon cancers. The disease manifests at a median age of 55 years (range: 23–86), and patients are predominantly male. The tumors are most frequently located in the cecum. Because endoscopic and imaging studies always show nonspecific findings, the diagnosis should be categorized as “suspicious”. The current treatment options for primary colonic lymphoma are inconclusive. However, recent studies have shown a trend where surgery followed by chemotherapy enhanced patient outcomes in those with localized disease. For disseminated disease, target therapy (rituximab) in combination with CHOP chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone) increases patient survival time. With advances in molecular techniques, the classification and management of lymphoma has made progress.