A CASE OF PERICARDIAL EFFUSION INDUCED BY T-LYMPHOBLASTIC LYMPHOMA IN A 72-YEAR-OLD MALE

T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma is a rare and aggres­sive malignancy, typically affecting children and young adults. We present a case of an elderly patient admitted with progressive dyspnoea and fatigue. Imaging revea­led bilateral pleural effusions, pericardial effusion, and a mediastinal mass compressing major thoracic vessels. Echocardiography confirmed pericardial tamponade, requiring emergency pericardiocentesis. Cytological analysis of the pleural fluid led to the diagnosis of T-LBL. After stabilization, the patient was transferred for urgent chemotherapy. This case highlights an unusual late-onset presentation of T-LBL with cardiac involve­ment, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and intervention.