Palen, Brian N.

Nitrofurantoin-induced lung toxicity is relatively common, but rare histologic patterns sometimes occur that may make diagnosis difficult. We present the case of a 69-year-old woman taking prophylactic nitrofurantoin for urinary tract infections, who developed granulomatous interstitial pneumonia. She improved with cessation of nitrofurantoin, without other therapy. To our knowledge, this is the fourth reported case of granulomatous interstitial pneumonia associated with nitrofurantoin, and the first to show complete resolution with cessation of the drug alone, without steroids. It is important to recognize that idiosyncratic reactions to nitrofurantoin can produce a wide spectrum of histologic patterns. Of these patterns, granulomatous interstitial pneumonia is a rarely evidenced manifestation (possibly because few cases undergo a confirmatory lung biopsy). Recognition of granulomatous interstitial pneumonia as a manifestation of nitrofurantoin toxicity can aid in early identification of the reaction and prompt withdrawal of the drug, both of which are essential to prevent long-term complications.

Intravascular Large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is an exceptionally rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) distinguished by the preferential growth of neoplastic cells within blood vessel lumen. Challenging to detect and deemed disseminated at diagnosis, this condition is characterized by a highly aggressive, inconspicuous course with a high mortality rate. We describe the case of a 48 year-old African-American female presenting with a two month history of low-grade fevers and malaise. Laboratory data was notable for anemia, thrombocytopenia, elevated liver function tests, and hematuria. An extensive work-up for infectious, rheumatologic and malignant causes was negative. Her symptoms progressed and within two weeks, she was admitted for disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Her course was complicated by diffuse pulmonary hemorrhage and ultimately, care was withdrawn. Autopsy identified widespread CD-20 positive intravascular large B-cell lymphoma with significant hepatosplenic involvement, characteristic of the Asian variant IVLBCL. This case uniquely highlights development of the Asian variant IVLBVL in a previously undescribed race. Identified by its intraluminal vascular growth pattern, IVLBCL generally spares lymphatic channels. Diagnosis and differentiation of this condition from other hematological malignancies via skin, visceral and bone marrow biopsy is imperative as anthracycline-containing chemotherapies may significantly improve clinical outcomes. This article outlines the common presentation, natural course, and treatment options of IVLBCL, along with the histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and chromosomal aberrations common to this condition.