A Rare Case of Fluid Overload–Associated Large B-Cell Lymphoma in a Patient With Hepatitis C Cirrhosis

ABSTRACT A 54-year-old man with hepatitis C cirrhosis presented with apparent spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, but further work-up confirmed the diagnosis of fluid overload–associated large B-cell lymphoma (FOA-LBCL). FOA-LBCL is a recently recognized entity with limited data on pathogenesis and treatment. Flow cytometry and cytological evaluation of ascitic fluid were key in establishing the diagnosis, whereas peripheral blood flow cytometry and imaging studies helped to exclude alternate infectious causes and secondary involvement by other lymphomas. We report a unique case of FOA-LBCL requiring multidisciplinary diagnosis and management.