Richter’s transformation (RT) is a complication of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or less commonly, Hairy cell leukemia, into a diffuse large B cell lymphoma.
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is the most common type of Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
RT should be suspected in patients with CLL who develop worsening B symptoms
- (fever, night sweats, and unintended weight loss) or
- Rapidly Progressive Lymphadenopathy
Biopsy is required to make the diagnosis and histologic pattern exhibits diffuse large B cells.
In this patient, the biopsy shows the pre-existing CLL, represented by the small lymphocytes, next to diffuse large B cells, which characterizes the transformation of CLL into a large B cell lymphoma.
RE: 68-year-old male with a history of chronic lymphocytic leukemia presents for follow-up with his oncologist...