[Gastrointestinal localizations of malignant lymphomas].

Lymphoma of the alimentary canal is somewhat rare. It has no unusual features and few characteristics, with the result that its clinical, radiological and endoscopic diagnosis is problematic, since its lesions may readily be confused by other neoplastic or inflammatory forms. The difficulty is, of course, primarily felt in the case of primary sites, since the co-existence of other lymphomatous tissues facilitates diagnosis. It is suggested that surgeons should be aware of the existence and treatment of these forms. 13 cases collected from 25 laparosplenectomies for staging since 1971 are presented. Four patients had primary lesions, whereas generalised lymphoma was present in the remainder. Nine patients are still alive after treatment.