Epstein-Barr virus-associated lymphoproliferative disorder mimicking Hodgkin’s lymphoma in immunocompetent patients: a case report and literature review

Sumaira Kanwal Rafiqui¹, Mamunul Islam²

Keywords: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), Epstein-Bar Virus (EBV), lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD).

DOI: 10.18231/j.yjom.2024.027

DOI URL: http://doi.org/10.18231/j.yjom.2024.027

Publish Date: 15-12-2025

Pages: 247 - 251

Downloads: 2

Author Affiliation:

1 Department of Medicine, Hamad General Hospital, Doha,, Qatar
2 Department of Medical & Education, Hamad Medical Corporation, Hamad, Qatar

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the most common infectious agent associated with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). This case report discusses a 24-year-old immunocompetent African male presenting with a five-month history of persistent high-grade fever, pancytopenia, and splenomegaly. Initial diagnostic evaluations, including bone marrow biopsy, suggested Hodgkin lymphoma; however, further lymph node biopsy, repeated bone marrow biopsy and comprehensive clinical assessment confirmed EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorder with HLH. This case underscores the importance of thorough diagnostic approaches, incorporating multiple biopsy sites and advanced imaging, to differentiate between EBV-associated HLH and hematological malignancies such as lymphomas. Enhanced clinical awareness and understanding of HLH's diverse presentations are essential for timely diagnosis and effective management.