Abstract
RATIONALE: Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a common subtype of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma characterized by high malignancy, rapid onset and aggressive clinical behavior. The disease exhibits considerable heterogeneity, which influences clinical and immunophenotypic characteristics, which in turn affect treatment outcomes and prognosis. Recently, targeted therapies have been introduced, offering improved therapeutic efficacy but with risks such as immunosuppression and opportunistic infections. PATIENT CONCERNS: We report a case of a patient diagnosed with DLBCL who experienced immunosuppression as a result of treatment with rituximab and a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor, which subsequently led to Strongyloides stercoralis infection. DIAGNOSES: The patient was diagnosed with S. stercoralis infection, confirmed by appropriate diagnostic tests after the onset of clinical symptoms suggestive of parasitic infection. INTERVENTIONS: The patient was treated with a combination of rituximab and a Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor as part of her DLBCL therapy. Antiparasitic treatment was started after diagnosis of S. stercoralis infection. OUTCOMES: The patient's infection was successfully managed with antiparasitic therapy, although the case highlights the need for vigilant monitoring of immunosuppressive therapy in patients with DLBCL due to the risk of opportunistic infections. LESSONS: This case highlights the potential complications of targeted therapies in DLBCL, particularly the risk of opportunistic infections such as S. stercoralis. It highlights the importance of careful patient monitoring and prompt intervention to effectively manage such infections.