Intravascular Lymphoma as a Cause of Recurrent Strokes – Case Report and Review of the Literature

Abstract

Background

Intravascular lymphoma is an uncommon cause of ischemic strokes. Because of its rarity and atypical pattern, most diagnoses are made post-mortem.

Case study

We present a case of a 68-year-old male with multiple cardiovascular risk factors and recent SARS-CoV-2 infection who presented with recurrent strokes. Because of his stroke risk factors, he was initially managed with a sequentially escalating antithrombotic regimen. A malignant process was low on the differential at this point given his lack of systemic symptoms. When he continued to have new strokes despite these measures, including a spinal cord infarct, a broad workup was sent including for hypercoagulable states, vasculitis, and intravascular lymphoma. Eventually, a skin biopsy of a cherry angioma returned positive for lymphoma cells. He was treated with methotrexate followed by chemotherapy and rituximab. Unfortunately, he did not improve and was made comfort measures only by his family.

Conclusion

This case illustrates the importance of considering intravascular lymphoma as a potential etiology of recurrent strokes, as early diagnosis and treatment are important for preventing irreversible neurological damage.