Hodgkin Lymphoma Presenting as Pel–Ebstein Fever: A Case Report

Abstract

Background

Prolonged fever of more than a year duration can be a symptom of underlying malignancy. This article appreciates the need for diligent history taking and carefully performed clinical examination, which is fundamental to reaching an initial diagnosis.

Case

We report the case of a middle-aged male who presented to us with a fever of more than a year duration. The patient's residence was located in a remote area where the nearby tertiary care center was almost 250 km away. He was empirically treated with antibiotics without any success by local physicians. After more than a year, he reported to us and was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma with a characteristic Pel–Ebstein pattern of fever missed earlier by the local physicians. His fever resolved within 5 days of chemotherapy, and he achieved complete remission.

Conclusion

Meticulous history-taking and clinical examination are essential for reaching a clinical diagnosis. Malignant causes should be considered in the differentials of prolonged fever.