Ahead of Print

Abstract

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. In approximately 40% of cases, it presents in extranodal sites, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. Its clinical presentation may mimic inflammatory bowel diseases, infectious conditions, or neoplasms, making early diagnosis challenging. We report the case of a 35-year-old man presenting with mechanical low back pain of several months duration and constitutional symptoms, initially managed under the suspicion of Crohn’s disease. Following an extensive multidisciplinary workup, a definitive diagnosis of anaplastic variant DLBCL, stage IV-B with intestinal involvement, was established. This case highlights the diagnostic complexity and underscores the importance of clinical follow-up, reconsideration of diagnostic hypotheses, and coordinated collaboration between primary care and hospital-based healthcare services.