Progressive transformation of germinal centers or nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma? Issues of differential diagnosis: a clinical case

Abstract

Progressive transformation of germinal centers (PTGC) is a benign reactive lymphadenopathy, which can be an independent disease or occur in association with other lymphomas, the most common variant of which is nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL). To date, it has not been definitively clarified how PTGC and NLPHL are interconnected, despite the abundance of works presented on this topic. PTGC may precede NLPHL, occur synchronously with it, or develop after a course of therapy in patients with NLPHL. Despite similar clinical and morphological features, the approach to the treatment and management of patients is different. In the case of NLPHL, one of the therapeutic options is chemotherapy, which is not used in patients with PTGC. This article presents a clinical case of partial lymph node lesion of NLPHL associated with PTGC, on the example of which the main issues of differential diagnosis of PTGC and NLHLP will be considered. The patient's parents gave their consent to the use of their child's data, including photographs, for research purposes and in publications.