Application of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in the diagnosis of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: A case report.

Introduction Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) is a series of proliferative diseases of the lymphatic system. Among patients receiving hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), PTLD is a prevalent complication that severely affects rates of survival. Ultrasound plays an essential role in the early diagnosis of PTLD. Contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) and CEUS-guided biopsy are critical procedures for tumor diagnosis. Patient concerns Herein, we report the case of a 40-year-old male patient with acute lymphoblastic leukemia who received HSCT more than 1 year ago. Sonography revealed a small hypoechoic nodule in the liver four months after HSCT. Eight months after HSCT, larger and more nodules were observed via ultrasound; CT was used to identify the lesions. Diagnoses CEUS and CEUS-guided biopsy were performed, and the pathological diagnosis was PTLD. Interventions The final clinical diagnosis was PTLD, and cyclophosphamide, epirubicin, and dexamethasone were administered as chemotherapy. Outcomes The patient was discharged after his condition improved. Conclusion Ultrasound can be used to effectively detect lesions of PTLD early after HSCT. Furthermore, CEUS and CEUS-guided biopsy were effective for early confirmatory diagnoses of PTLD after HSCT.