Mantle cell lymphoma of the oral cavity: case series and comprehensive review of the literature
Received 3 June 2009; received in revised form 5 August 2009; accepted 6 August 2009. published online 02 November 2009.
Objective
Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is a rare B-cell neoplasm that has only recently been defined as a distinct entity. Because of its rarity and histologic similarities to other small cell lymphomas, the microscopic diagnosis of MCL may be challenging. This is particularly true within the oral cavity, where other lymphomas are more frequent. To date, few cases of MCL presenting within the oral cavity have been reported.
Study design
We present 2 new cases of MCL within the oral cavity and systematically review 7 other cases of MCL reported in the English-language literature. Historical cases were reviewed, and available data regarding morphology, special stains, demographics, clinical presentation, radiographic findings, management, and outcome were extracted. Data from our present series were then compared with the earlier published literature.
Results
To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest reviewed series of MCL within the oral cavity, totaling 9 cases. The features of our cases, including histology, clinical presentation, and outcome, are consistent with the 7 earlier reported cases. The majority of oral MCLs occur in an older male population, and a high proportion occur on the palate.
Conclusion
We conclude that MCL of the oral cavity is an uncommon diagnosis. Most oral MCLs occur in an elderly male population and have a possible predilection for the palate. The microscopic diagnosis can be challenging, given its similar appearance to other small cell lymphomas, requiring a comprehensive immunohistochemical panel for the accurate diagnosis. Like MCL occurring in other sites in the body, the prognosis and outcome of oral MCL appears to be poor.
aDepartment of Orofacial Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
bDepartment of Anatomic Pathology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
cHelen Diller Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
dDepartment of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California
Reprint requests: Richard C. K. Jordan, S-512, 513 Parnassus Avenue, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143-0424
Supported by the National Institutes of Health (CA095231, T32DE017249, and T32DE019096).
ABSTRACT