Primary Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma of the Mandible in an Immunocompetent Patient

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL) is very commonly associated with immunosuppressive states. Its occurrence in an immunocompetent person is scarcely reported in literature. Although NHL is known to occur in the jaws, mandibular involvement with invasion in bone is an uncommon entity. Dental surgeons should be aware that NHL can present in the oral cavity as a non-tender swelling or ulceration and should be included in the differential diagnosis of oral swellings and ulcers. Histopathological examination, assessment of immune status of the patient and search for primary or metastatic lesions should be a part of the diagnostic work up. A case of NHL of the mandible in an immunocompetent patient with follow up is presented here.