Lymphoma and Other Lymphoproliferative Disorders in IBD: A Review.
Oct 2012
Source
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Unit, Canberra Hospital, ACT.
Abstract
The lymphoproliferative disorders (LD) are a heterogeneous group of at least 70 conditions that result from the clonal proliferation of B, T and NK cells. IBD-associated lymphomas are typically B-cell LD, while T-cell or Hodgkin's lymphomas are rare. In IBD patients not on immunosuppression, the risk of LD seems to be similar or slightly higher than the background population risk. Thiopurine therapy is associated with an increased risk: the relative risk is increased 4-6 fold and the absolute risk varies between 1 in 4,000-5,000 for those aged 20-29 to 1 in 300-400 in those over 70. It is difficult to quantify the risk of anti-TNF therapy alone, however it appears to be less than for thiopurines alone. There is particular concern regarding: the development of post-transplant-like LD in those with latent EBV infection exposed to immunosuppressives; the occurrence of hepatosplenic T cell lymphoma in patients treated with combination anti-TNF and thiopurine therapy; and the development of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in those who acquire a primary EBV or other infection whilst on immunosuppressive medication. There are currently no guidelines for monitoring EBV (or other virus) status in patients on immunosuppression, although it could be used to monitor those who have a prior history of lymphoma and are about to start a thiopurine or anti-TNF agent. In discussing the risks of lymphoproliferative disorders associated with agents used for the treatment of IBD, patients can often be reassured that the benefits of such therapy still outweigh the small, but real, risks.
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