Stroke mimicking encephalopathy as an initial manifestation of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

Background: Systemic lymphoma can be difficult to recognize due to its diverse manifestations. Paraneoplastic leukoencephalopathy has rarely been reported in the context of lymphoma.

Case Report: We report a 45-year-old man with systemic lymphoma whose initial manifestation was sudden-onset leukoencephalopathy, mimicking stroke. This patient, who was eventually diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, initially presented with sudden cognitive impairment and gait disturbance. Radiological studies suggested a paraneoplastic leukoencephalopathy. Chemotherapy for lymphoma resulted in clinical and radiological improvement.

Conclusions: The presented case indicates that diffuse large B-cell lymphoma may initially appear as a treatable leukoencephalopathy.