Leukemic phase follicular lymphoma in a young adult.

BACKGROUND

Leukemic presentation of follicular lymphoma (FL) is uncommon, with most cases reported in older adults.

DESIGN

This report describes an unusual case of a young adult diagnosed with leukemic phase of FL. We reviewed the existing literature on this rare presentation of the disease and its potential impact on patient outcomes.

RESULTS

Leukemic phase of FL in young adults can be mistaken for other high-grade hematologic malignancies. Morphology assessment and ancillary testing, such as flow cytometry and FISH analysis, can assist in achieving an accurate diagnosis of the leukemic phase of FL. Notably, our young patient responded well to therapy, which is different from what is typically observed in older patients who have a poorer prognosis. Further cases are needed to investigate the prognostic impact of the leukemic phase of FL in younger patients.