Lymphomatous meningitis in a patient with HIV

  • José Bacca-Arcos Universidad del Rosario (Bogotá, Colombia)
  • Paula Andrea Navarrete Sosa
  • Samuel de Jesús González Vélez Universidad Nacional de Colombia (Bogotá, Colombia)
  • Maria Rey Salamanca Residente

Abstract

Introduction: neoplastic meningitis is a diagnostic challenge in immunocompromised patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, due to the wide variety of possible clinical manifestations and etiologies. Among the neoplasms associated with this population, Burkitt’s lymphoma stands out due to its highly aggressive behavior and association with a poor prognosis.

Case presentation: we describe a patient with a recent HIV diagnosis who presented with a severe headache, facial paresthesia, fever and generalized adenomegaly. Ancillary studies showed findings compatible with meningeal infiltration secondary to Burkitt’s lymphoma with central nervous system involvement.

Conclusion: this case highlights the importance of considering lymphomatous meningitis within the differential diagnosis of patients with HIV who present neurological symptoms and lymphadenopathy syndrome. Early recognition is essential due to the aggressive nature of Burkitt’s lymphoma and its impact on the prognosis

Author Biographies

José Bacca-Arcos, Universidad del Rosario (Bogotá, Colombia)

Magíster en Epidemiología, Máster en VIH. Residente Medicina Interna Universidad del Rosario, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud

Paula Andrea Navarrete Sosa

Médico general. Epidemiología clínica

Samuel de Jesús González Vélez, Universidad Nacional de Colombia (Bogotá, Colombia)

Especialista en Medicina Interna y Fellow de Endocrinología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Especialista en gerencia en salud, FUCS

Published
2026-01-28
How to Cite
Bacca-Arcos, J., Navarrete Sosa, P. A., González Vélez, S. de J., & Rey Salamanca, M. (2026). Lymphomatous meningitis in a patient with HIV. Acta Médica Colombiana, 51(2 - ABRIL-). https://doi.org/10.36104/amc.2026.4936