Hepatitis C virus and B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas: an Italian multicenter case-control study

Lymphoma-associated dysimmune polyneuropathies

Lymphoma consists of a variety of malignancies of lymphocyte origin. A spectrum of clinical peripheral neuropathy syndromes with different disease mechanisms occurs in about 5% of lymphoma patients. There exists a complex inter-relationship between lymphoproliferative malignancies and autoimmunity. An imbalance in the regulation of the immune system presumably underlies various immune-mediated neuropathies in patients with lymphoma. This article reviews lymphoma and more-or-less well-defined dysimmune neuropathy subgroups that are caused by humoral and/or cell-mediated immune disease mechanisms directed against known or undetermined peripheral nerve antigens.

Prognostic impact of hepatitis C virus infection in patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma treated with immunochemotherapy in the context of a novel prognostic index

OBJECTIVE

Patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection have been associated with development of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), yet its impact on several clinical aspects, including phenotypic characteristics and treatment-related toxicities as well as survival outcome after rituximab-based immunochemotherapy, remains controversial.

METHODS

To elucidate the characteristics of HCV-positive DLBCL in the context of a new prognostic model, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network International Prognostic Index (NCCN-IPI), we retrospectively analyzed DLBCL patients diagnosed and treated with immunochemotherapy at our institute during the last decade.

RESULTS

In all, HCV infection was identified in 22 (17.7%) of 124 DLBCL patients. Except for being more likely to present with an advanced stage of disease, patients with HCV infection were phenotypically indistinguishable from HCV-negative cases. Multivariate analysis showed 3 factors independently predicted a dismal overall survival (OS) outcome: lower albumin level (<3 g/dL vs. ≥3 g/dL, p<0.001; HR=13.21, 95% CI=2.69-64.98, p=0.001), presence of HCV infection (vs. HCV-negative; HR=9.75, 95% CI=1.97-48.34, p=0.005), and poor NCCN-IPI risk (high-intermediate or high vs. low-intermediate or low; HR=5.56, 95% CI=1.17-26.55, p=0.031).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study has demonstrated that HCV infection status and low serum albumin level add important prognostic values to the newly proposed NCCN-IPI model for patients with DLBCL.

Chronic hepatitis C virus infection and lymphoproliferative disorders: mixed cryoglobulinemia syndrome, monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, and B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) has been associated with lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) such as mixed cryoglobulinemia syndrome (MCS), monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS), and B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL). The aim of the present study is to assess MCS, MGUS, and B-NHL prevalence in a cohort of CHC-infected patients and to evaluate the association of demographic, clinical, and virologic factors with the presence of LPDs.

METHODS

A total of 121 CHC patients with LPDs (50 M, 71 F; mean age 61.5 ± 11.8) and 130 CHC patients without extrahepatic manifestations (60 M, 70 F; mean age 60.4 ± 9.2) were retrospectively enrolled from a cohort of 1313 CHC patients between January 2006 and December 2013. Patients with LPDs included: 25 patients with MCS (9 M, 16 F; mean age 60.2 ± 1.4), 55 patients with MGUS (18 M, 37 F; mean age 61.3 ± 12.1), and 41 patients with B-NHL (23 M, 18F; mean age 62.5 ± 11.0) RESULTS: Patients with MCS (25/1313; 1.9%), MGUS (55/1313; 4.2%), and B-LNH (41/1313; 3.1%) did not differ in age, severity of liver disease, HCV genotype, and response to antiviral therapy. Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, a positive association was found between the presence of cirrhosis and MGUS (odds ratio [OR] = 2.8924, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2693-6.5909; P = 0.012) and between cirrhosis and B-NHL (OR = 3.9407, 95% CI 1.7226-9.0153; P = 0.001), whereas no association with MCS diagnosis emerged.

CONCLUSION

Despite the pathogenetic mechanism of HCV-associated LPDs is still unclear, cirrhosis is an additional risk factor for the development of lymphoproliferative disorders in patients with chronic HCV infection.

Hepatitis C virus syndrome: A constellation of organ- and non-organ specific autoimmune disorders, B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and cancer

The clinical course of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is characterized by possible development of both liver and extrahepatic disorders. The tropism of HCV for the lymphoid tissue is responsible for several immune-mediated disorders; a poly-oligoclonal B-lymphocyte expansion, commonly observed in a high proportion of patients with HCV infection, are responsible for the production of different autoantibodies and immune-complexes, such as mixed cryoglobulins. These serological alterations may characterize a variety of autoimmune or neoplastic diseases. Cryoglobulinemic vasculitis due to small-vessel deposition of circulating mixed cryoglobulins is the prototype of HCV-driven immune-mediated and lymphoproliferative disorders; interestingly, in some cases the disease may evolve to frank malignant lymphoma. In addition, HCV shows an oncogenic potential as suggested by several clinico-epidemiological and laboratory studies; in addition to hepatocellular carcinoma that represents the most frequent HCV-related malignancy, a causative role of HCV has been largely demonstrated in a significant percentage of patients with isolated B-cells non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. The same virus may be also involved in the pathogenesis of papillary thyroid cancer, a rare neoplastic condition that may complicate HCV-related thyroid involvement. Patients with HCV infection are frequently asymptomatic or may develop only hepatic alteration, while a limited but clinically relevant number can develop one or more autoimmune and/or neoplastic disorders. Given the large variability of their prevalence among patients' populations from different countries, it is possible to hypothesize a potential role of other co-factors, i.e., genetic and/or environmental, in the pathogenesis of HCV-related extra-hepatic diseases.

Antiviral therapy is associated with a better survival in patients with hepatitis C virus and B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas, ANRS HC-13 lympho-C study

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection increases the risk of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas (B-NHL). Antiviral treatment (AT) can induce hematological responses in patients with marginal zone lymphomas (MZL). The ANRS HC-13 Lympho-C study aimed at a better understanding of the impact of AT on HCV associated B-NHL. This multicentric study enrolled 116 HCV-positive patients with B-NHL between 2006 and 2012. Cytological and histological samples were collected for centralized review. At lymphoma diagnosis, median age was 61 years and gender ratio M/F was 1. Cytohistological distribution was marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) n = 45 (39%), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) n = 45 (39%), and other types n = 26 (22%). MZL patients had more frequent detection of rheumatoid factor (68% vs. 35%; P = 0.001) and more frequently mixed cryoglobulinemia (74% vs. 44%; P = 0.021) than patients with DLBCL. Among patients receiving AT, a sustained virologic response was achieved in 23 of 38 (61%) patients with MZL and in 9 of 17 (53%) with DLBCL (P = 0.42). Three-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival were 78% 95%CI [63-88] and 64% [48-76], respectively, without difference between cytohistological groups. Outcome analysis showed a favorable association between OS and AT in all patients (P = 0.05) and in the subgroup of MZL patients only (P = 0.04). Our data support that AT improves the outcomes of HCV-associated NHLs. The impact of new AT regimen with protease inhibitor needs to be investigated in this setting. [clinicalTrials.gov Identification number NCT01545544]

Hepatitis C infection is associated with hepatic toxicity but does not compromise the survival of patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma treated with rituximab-based chemotherapy

The influence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection on the outcome of patients with diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) treated with rituximab-based chemotherapy is controversial. We retrospectively analyzed the characteristics and clinical outcomes of 168 patients with DLBCL diagnosed between January 2005 and December 2011. Twenty-nine patients who were HCV-positive before lymphoma treatment were compared with 139 patients who did not have HCV infection. The median follow-up duration was 3.0 (0.07-8.02) years. HCV infection resulted in more hepatic toxicity in both univariate (p=0.001) and multivariate (p=0.003) analyses. In addition, HCV-positive DLBCL patients were more likely to have treatment delay (20.1% vs. 0.7%, p<0.001). For patients who developed hepatic toxicity during immunochemotherapy, HCV-positive patients had significantly higher folds of aspartate aminotransferase elevation (p=0.042) and total bilirubin elevation (p=0.012) compared with those who were HCV negative. However, HCV did not influence the 5-year progression-free survival rate (p=0.412) or 5-year overall survival rate (p=0.410). In conclusion, HCV infection is associated with increased hepatic toxicity and delayed chemotherapy without compromised survival in DLBCL patients treated with rituximab-based chemotherapy.

Hepatitis C infection and lymphoproliferative disease: Accidental comorbidities?

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been associated with liver cancer and cirrhosis, autoimmune disorders such as thyroiditis and mixed cryoglobulinema, and alterations in immune function and chronic inflammation, both implicated in B cell lymphoproliferative diseases that may progress to non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). HCV bound to B cell surface receptors can induce lymphoproliferation, leading to DNA mutations and/or lower antigen response thresholds. These findings and epidemiological reports suggest an association between HCV infection and NHL. We performed a systematic review of the literature to clarify this potential relationship. We searched the English-language literature utilizing Medline, Embase, Paper First, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, with search terms broadly defined to capture discussions of HCV and its relationship with NHL and/or lymphoproliferative diseases. References were screened to further identify relevant studies and literature in the basic sciences. A total of 62 reports discussing the relationship between HCV, NHL, and lymphoproliferative diseases were identified. Epidemiological studies suggest that at least a portion of NHL may be etiologically attributable to HCV, particularly in areas with high HCV prevalence. Studies that showed a lack of association between HCV infection and lymphoma may have been influenced by small sample size, short follow-up periods, and database limitations. The association appears strongest with the B-cell lymphomas relative to other lymphoproliferative diseases. Mechanisms by which chronic HCV infection promotes lymphoproliferative disease remains unclear. Lymphomagenesis is a multifactorial process involving genetic, environmental, and infectious factors. HCV most probably have a role in the lymphomagenesis but further study to clarify the association and underlying mechanisms is warranted.

Does the presence of hepatitis virus B and C influence the evolution of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma?

Hepatitis infection has a high prevalence in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Our objective was to evaluate clinical characteristics and survival of patients diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) who were hepatitis B and/or C (HBV/HCV) positive. We reviewed 224 patents diagnosed with DLBCL and found 21 to be HBV/HCV positive (9.3%). Significant differences were found in the number of nodal regions affected, four in HBV/HCV positive versus two in virus negative patients, and in liver involvement, which was greater in HBV/HCV positive patients (28.6% vs. 10%, p = 0.028). No significant differences were found in the two groups with respect to the number of relapses or the probability of overall or progression-free survival. Despite the finding of differences with respect to stage, total number of nodal regions affected and liver involvement, HBV/HCV positive and negative patients with DLBCL should receive the same treatment, and the disease responds and evolves equally.

The NOTCH pathway is recurrently mutated in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma associated with hepatitis C virus infection

Hepatitis C virus has been found to be associated with B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas, mostly marginal zone lymphomas and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Deregulation of signaling pathways involved in normal marginal zone development (NOTCH pathway, NF-κB, and BCR signaling) has been demonstrated in splenic marginal zone lymphoma. We studied mutations of NOTCH pathway signaling in 46 patients with hepatitis C virus-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and in 64 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma unrelated to HCV. NOTCH2 mutations were detected in 9 of 46 (20%) hepatitis C virus-positive patients, and NOTCH1 mutations in 2 of 46 (4%). By contrast, only one of 64 HCV-negative patients had a NOTCH1 or NOTCH2 mutation. The frequency of the NOTCH pathway lesions was significantly higher in hepatitis C virus-positive patients (P=0.002). The 5-year overall survival was 27% (95%CI: 5%-56%) for hepatitis C virus-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients carrying a NOTCH pathway mutation versus 62% (95%CI: 42%-77%) for those without these genetic lesions. By univariate analysis, age over 60 years, NOTCH2 mutation, and any mutation of the NOTCH pathway (NOTCH2, NOTCH1, SPEN) were associated with shorter overall survival. Mutation of the NOTCH pathway retained an independent significance (P=0.029). In conclusion, a subset of patients with hepatitis C virus-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma displays a molecular signature of splenic marginal zone and has a worse clinical outcome.

Hepatitis C virus and lymphoma

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a hepatotrophic and lymphotrophic virus and is a global health problem. Cirrhosis and hepatocellular cancer are the most common complications of HCV. Association between HCV and B cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas (B-NHL) has been shown in epidemiological studies in the last 20 years. High prevalence of HCV infection among patients with NHL has been reported in the early 1990s by Ferri in Italy and this association has been confirmed in later studies. Geographically, HCV related NHL is highly variable and chronic rather than cleared HCV infection is required for lymphomagenesis. Although anti-HCV antibody test is the most commonly used technique in epidemiological studies, HCV-RNA is more useful test to detect the association between HCV and NHL. The optimal management of HCV related NHL is not clear. However, anti-viral treatment may be sufficient for cases with low grade and/or asymptomatic lymphomas, while immuno-chemotherapy is necessary, in spite of probable hepatic toxicity, in cases with high grade lymphomas.

microRNA levels in paraffin-embedded indolent B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma tissues from patients chronically infected with hepatitis B or C virus

Background

Epidemiological evidence links Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) to B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL). These B-NHLs, particularly those associated with HCV, may represent a distinct sub-group with peculiar molecular features, including peculiar expression of microRNAs (miRs).

The aim of the present study was to search for miRs whose level in indolent B-NHL tissues could be associated with HBV or HCV infection.

Methods

Fourteen formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissues from HBV+, HCV+ and HBV-/HCV- indolent B-NHL patients were analyzed for levels of 34 selected miRs by quantitative Real-Time PCR. Reactive lymph nodes (RLNs) from HBV-/HCV- patients were included as non-tumor control. Statistical analysis of output data included Pearson and Spearman correlation and Mann-Whitney test and were carried out by the STATA software.

Results

MiR-92a was decreased exclusively in HBV-/HCV- B-NHLs, while miR-30b was increased in HBV+ and HCV+ samples, though only the HCV+ achieved full statistical significance. Analysis of a small subset of B-NHLs belonging to the same histological subtype (Nodal Marginal Zone Lymphoma) highlighted three miRs associated with HCV infection (miR-223, miR-29a and miR-29b) and confirmed decreased level of miR-92a in HBV-/HCV- samples also when considering this restricted B-NHL group.

Conclusions

Although caution is needed due to the limited number of analyzed samples, overall the results suggest that differences at the miR expression level exist between indolent B-NHLs developed in patients with or without HBV or HCV infection. The identification of three further miRs associated with HCV by analyzing histologically homogeneous samples suggests that variations of miR levels possibly associated with HBV or HCV may be obscured by the tissue-specific variability of miR level associated with the different histological subtypes of B-NHL. Thus, the identification of further miRs will require, in addition to an increased sample size, the comparison of B-NHL tissues with the same histological classification.

Hepatitis C virus and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: Pathogenesis, behavior and treatment

A significant association between hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and B-cell lymphoma has been reported by epidemiological studies, most of them describing a strong relationship between indolent lymphomas and HCV. Furthermore, the curative potential of antiviral therapy on HCV related indolent lymphomas supports a specific role for the virus in lymphomagenesis. These observations are reinforced by numerous laboratory experiments that led to several hypothetical models of B-cell transformation by HCV. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), the most common lymphoma subtype in the western countries, has been associated to HCV infection despite its aggressive nature. This association seems particularly prominent in some geographical areas. Clinical presentation of HCV-associated DLBCL has consistently been reported to differ from the HCV-negative counterpart. Nevertheless, histopathology, tolerance to standard-of-care chemo-immunotherapy (R-CHOP or CHOP-like regimens) and final outcome of HCV-positive DLBCL patients is still matter of debate. Addition of rituximab has been described to enhance viral replication but the probability of severe hepatic complications remains low, with some exceptions (i.e., hepatitis B virus or immune immunodeficiency virus co-infected patients, presence of grade > 2 transaminases elevation, cirrhosis or hepatocarcinoma). HCV viral load in this setting is not necessarily directly associated with liver damage. Overall, treatment of HCV associated DLBCL should be performed in an interdisciplinary approach with hepatologists and hematologists with close monitoring of liver function. Available reports reveal that the final outcome of HCV-positive DLBCL that receive standard immunochemotherapy is not inferior to their HCV-negative counterpart. This review summarizes data on epidemiology, pathogenesis and therapeutic approach on HCV-associated DLBCL. Several issues that are matter of debate like clinical management of patients with transaminase elevation, criteria for discontinuing or starting immuno-chemotherapy, as well as the exact role of monoclonal antibodies will be analyzed.

Splenic marginal-zone lymphoma: ontogeny and genetics

Splenic marginal-zone lymphoma (SMZL) is a rare tumor that has recently emerged as a prototype for how the interplay between genetics and environment shapes the natural history of lymphomas. Indeed, the recent identification of molecular immunogenetic subgroups within SMZL may prove to be relevant not only for the sub-classification of the disease but also for improved understanding of the underlying biology. In contrast to other B-cell lymphomas, SMZL lacks a characteristic genetic lesion, although the majority of cases harbor genomic aberrations, as recently revealed by high-throughput studies that identified recurrent genetic aberrations, several in pathways related to marginal-zone differentiation and B-cell signaling. Here we provide an overview of recent research into the molecular and cellular biology of SMZL and related disorders, with special emphasis on immunogenetics and genomic aberrations, and discuss the value of molecular and cellular markers for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of these entities.

New evidence of replication of hepatitis C virus in short-term peripheral blood mononuclear cell cultures

BACKGROUND

Even though hepatocytes are the main site for hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) have also been proposed as a suitable site for HCV replication. However, this issue still remains under discussion. We have previously developed an innovative system where HCV-RNA can be recovered during PBMC culture from HCV infected patients. Thus, the aim of this work was to use this novel approach in order to observe the evolution and replication of HCV genotype 1b in the PBMC of an HIV-HCV coinfected patient.

METHODS

HCV-RNA was extracted from serum, uncultured PBMC and PBMC culture at day 6, 20 and 33. The evolutionary analysis was performed using the direct sequences of three viral regions: 5'UTR, E2 and NS5A. Additionally, E2 region was cloned in order to extend the evolutive analysis.

RESULTS

In the present work, the molecular characterization of HCV along the culture showed a clear dynamic evolving process with the appearance of several nucleotide or amino acid changes in the three regions analyzed. Furthermore, the population analysis of E2 clones showed emerging and loss of lineages which indicate the fast evolutive dynamics of this system.

CONCLUSIONS

Since evolution can take place only if the virus is replicating in the culture, this finding constitutes an important evidence of viral replication in PBMC. Moreover, this extrahepatic compartment could be very important due to the presence of distinctive variants that could be responsible for resistance to treatment, viral pathogenesis and other clinical implications.

Recognizing nodal marginal zone lymphoma: recent advances and pitfalls. A systematic review

The diagnosis of nodal marginal zone lymphoma is one of the remaining problem areas in hematopathology. Because no established positive markers exist for this lymphoma, it is frequently a diagnosis of exclusion, making distinction from other low-grade B-cell lymphomas difficult or even impossible. This systematic review summarizes and discusses the current knowledge on nodal marginal zone lymphoma, including clinical features, epidemiology and etiology, histology, and cytogenetic and molecular features. In particular, recent advances in diagnostics and pathogenesis are discussed. New immunohistochemical markers have become available that could be used as positive markers for nodal marginal zone lymphoma. These markers could be used to ensure more homogeneous study groups in future research. Also, recent gene expression studies and studies describing specific gene mutations have provided clues to the pathogenesis of nodal marginal zone lymphoma, suggesting deregulation of the nuclear factor kappa B pathway. Nevertheless, nodal marginal zone lymphoma remains an enigmatic entity, requiring further study to define its pathogenesis to allow an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment. However, recent data indicate that it is not related to splenic or extranodal lymphoma, and that it is also not related to lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma. Thus, even though the diagnosis is not always easy, it is clearly a separate entity.

B-cell-intrinsic hepatitis C virus expression leads to B-cell-lymphomagenesis and induction of NF-κB signalling

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection leads to the development of hepatic diseases, as well as extrahepatic disorders such as B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (B-NHL). To reveal the molecular signalling pathways responsible for HCV-associated B-NHL development, we utilised transgenic (Tg) mice that express the full-length HCV genome specifically in B cells and develop non-Hodgkin type B-cell lymphomas (BCLs). The gene expression profiles in B cells from BCL-developing HCV-Tg mice, from BCL-non-developing HCV-Tg mice, and from BCL-non-developing HCV-negative mice were analysed by genome-wide microarray. In BCLs from HCV-Tg mice, the expression of various genes was modified, and for some genes, expression was influenced by the gender of the animals. Markedly modified genes such as Fos, C3, LTβR, A20, NF-κB and miR-26b in BCLs were further characterised using specific assays. We propose that activation of both canonical and alternative NF-κB signalling pathways and down-regulation of miR-26b contribute to the development of HCV-associated B-NHL.

Hepatitis C virus screening in patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy

PURPOSE

Reactivation of hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication can occur in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy. We aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of HCV screening at the onset of chemotherapy among patients with cancer.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of adults with cancer who were newly registered at MD Anderson Cancer Center from January 2004 to April 2011 and received chemotherapy. The primary study outcome was HCV antibody (anti-HCV) screening at chemotherapy onset. We calculated screening prevalence and predictors by comparing characteristics of screened and unscreened patients using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 141,877 new patients with cancer were registered at MD Anderson during the study period, of whom 16,773 (11.8%) received chemotherapy and met inclusion criteria. A total of 2,330 patients (13.9%) were screened for HCV, and 35 (1.5%) tested positive. Only 42% of patients with exposure-type HCV risk factors, such as HIV infection, injection drug use, hemodialysis, or hemophilia, were screened. Birth after 1965, Asian race, HCV risk factors, and anticipated rituximab therapy were significant predictors of HCV screening; black patients and patients with solid tumors were significantly less likely to be screened. The only significant predictor of a positive anti-HCV result was birth during 1945 to 1965.

CONCLUSION

HCV screening rates were low, even among patients with risk factors, and the groups with the highest rates of screening did not match the groups with the highest rates of a positive test result. Misconceptions may exist about which patients should be screened for HCV infection.

The role of inflammation in lymphoma

Human lymphomas usually develop in specialized tissue microenvironments characterized by different populations of accessory stromal and lymphoid cells that interact with malignant cells. A clinical role of the tumor microenvironment has recently emerged, bringing new knowledge and suggesting new ideas and targets for treatment. This chapter analyzes the microenvironment in human lymphomas highlighting the role of inflammation in their pathogenesis. Microenvironmental specificity is detailed according to different models including classic Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), follicular lymphoma (FL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), peripheral T-cell lymphoma, unspecified and angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma (AITL).

The impact of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection on clinical outcomes of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

We performed a retrospective study to analyse the characteristics and clinical outcomes of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and compare with those without HBV infection. The occurrence of hepatitis after withdrawal of prophylactic antiviral treatment on completion of chemotherapy was also assessed. The HBsAg-positive patients were given prophylactic antiviral treatment until 6 months after finishing chemotherapy. A total of 81 patients were recruited with 16 in the HBsAg-positive group and 65 in the HBsAg-negative group. The clinical characteristics were similar in both groups of patients. There was no significant difference in complete remission rate between the two groups (63% in HBsAg-positive group vs. 54% in HBsAg-negative group, P = 0.59). There was also no statistically significant difference in overall survival between the two groups (P = 0.23). Four of the 16 HBsAg-positive patients (25%) had hepatitis after cessation of chemotherapy and prophylactic lamivudine. The mean time of onset of hepatitis was 3 months after stopping lamivudine. In conclusion, HBV infection did not appear to affect the prognosis of DLBCL patients given antiviral prophylaxis. It is reasonable to consider prophylactic antiviral therapy to extend to at least one year on completion of chemotherapy.

Relationships between lymphomas linked to hepatitis C virus infection and their microenvironment

The relationships between lymphomas and their microenvironment appear to follow 3 major patterns: (1) an independent pattern; (2) a dependent pattern on deregulated interactions; and (3) a dependent pattern on regulated coexistence. Typical examples of the third pattern are hepatitis C virus (HCV)-associated marginal zone lymphomas (MZLs) and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphomas. In these lymphomas, a regulated coexistence of the malignant cells and the microenvironmental factors usually occurs. At least initially, however, tumor development and cell growth largely depend on external signals from the microenvironment, such as viral antigens, cytokines, and cell-cell interactions. The association between HCV infection and B-cell lymphomas is not completely defined, although this association has been demonstrated by epidemiological studies. MZL and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma are the histotypes most frequently associated with HCV infection. Many mechanisms have been proposed for explaining HCV-induced lymphomagenesis; antigenic stimulation by HCV seems to be fundamental in establishing B-cell expansion as observed in mixed cryoglobulinemia and in B-cell lymphomas. Recently, antiviral treatment has been proved to be effective in the treatment of HCV-associated indolent lymphomas. Importantly, clinically responses were linked to the eradication of the HCV-RNA, providing a strong argument in favor of a causative link between HCV and lymphoproliferation.

Outcome prediction of diffuse large B-cell lymphomas associated with hepatitis C virus infection: a study on behalf of the Fondazione Italiana Linfomi

A specific prognostication score for hepatitis C virus-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphomas is not available. For this purpose, the Fondazione Italiana Linfomi (FIL, Italian Lymphoma Foundation) carried out a multicenter retrospective study on a large consecutive series of patients with hepatitis C virus-associated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma to evaluate the prognostic impact of clinical and virological features and to develop a specific prognostic score for this subset of patients. All prognostic evaluations were performed on 535 patients treated with an anthracycline-based induction regimen (with rituximab in 255 cases). Severe hepatotoxicity was observed in 14% of patients. The use of rituximab was not associated with increased rate of severe hepatotoxicity. Three-year overall survival and progression-free survival were 71% and 55%, respectively. At multivariate analysis, ECOG performance status of 2 or over, serum albumin below 3.5 g/dL and HCV-RNA viral load over 1000 KIU/mL retained prognostic significance. We combined these 3 factors in a new "HCV Prognostic Score" able to discriminate 3 risk categories with different overall and progression-free survival (low=0; intermediate=1; high-risk ≥2 factors; P<0.001). This score retained prognostic value in the subgroups of patients treated with and without rituximab (P<0.001). The new score performed better than the International Prognostic Index at multivariate analysis and Harrel C-statistic. With the use of three readily available factors (performance status, albumin level and HCV-RNA viral load), the new "HCV Prognostic Score" is able to identify 3 risk categories with different survival, and may be a useful tool to predict the outcome of hepatitis C virus-associated diffuse large B-cell lymphomas.

Serum biomarker signature identifies patients with B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma associated with cryoglobulinemia vasculitis in chronic HCV infection

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is associated with B-cell disorders, including mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC) and B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL). We hypothesized that combination of serum biomarkers could be used to identify B-NHL in HCV patients.

METHODS

We measured in 155 HCV infected patients, with and without MC and/or B-NHL, serum levels of eight markers previously described to be increased in patients with B-NHL, i.e. sCD22, sCD27, sIL-2Rα, sCD137, free-light chains of Ig (ratio κ/λ), heavy chains of Ig (ratio IgMκ/IgMλ), gammaglobulins and C4. We used a multiparametric analysis to determine a signature that identifies patients with overt B-NHL.

RESULTS

Serum levels were significantly different between patients without MC, patients with asymptomatic MC, patients with MC vasculitis and those with MC vasculitis and B-NHL for all biomarkers except for sCD137. Using multiparametric analysis, we identified a signature involving sCD27, sIL-2Rα, gammaglobulins and C4 levels associated with the presence of overt B-NHL in HCV-infected patients. This signature had a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 90%, and positive and negative predictive values of 97 and 100%, respectively for discriminating patients with overt B-NHL and those without B-NHL.

CONCLUSION

Our data indicate that serum biomarker signature allows identifying HCV-infected patients presenting with overt B-NHL.

Splenic marginal zone lymphoma: disease features and management

Splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) is a lymphoma recognized as a distinct entity in the WHO classification of the lymphoid tumors. SMZL probably results from the expansion of a marginal zone B-cell driven by persistent antigen stimulation. SMZL is clinically and biologically heterogeneous. The SMZL Working Group has published guidelines for the diagnosis, workup and treatment of SMZL. There are no standard criteria to initiate treatment. A policy of watch and wait in asymptomatic patients is recommended. In symptomatic patients, data from retrospective studies suggest that rituximab with or without chemotherapy is the best strategy for SMZL. It is uncertain which is the optimal type of chemotherapy and whether patients may benefit from splenectomy prior chemoimmunotherapy. In the future, we may see progress with agents targeting known molecular lesions in SMZL.

Hepatitis C-associated B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas. Epidemiology, molecular signature and clinical management

There is ample epidemiologic evidence for an association of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL). B-NHL subtypes most frequently associated with HCV are marginal zone lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The most convincing evidence for a causal relationship between HCV infection and lymphoma development is the observation of B-NHL regression after HCV eradication by antiviral therapy (AVT). In fact, for indolent HCV-associated B-NHL, first-line AVT instead of standard immune-chemotherapy might be considered. Molecular mechanisms of HCV-NHL development are still poorly understood. Three general theories have emerged to understand the HCV-induced lymphomagenesis: (1) continuous external stimulation of lymphocyte receptors by viral antigens and consecutive proliferation; (2) HCV replication in B cells with oncogenic effect mediated by intracellular viral proteins; (3) permanent B-cell damage, e.g., mutation of tumor suppressor genes, caused by a transiently intracellular virus ("hit and run" theory). This review systematically summarizes the data on epidemiology, interventional studies, and molecular mechanisms of HCV-associated B-NHL.

Regression of a case of Multiple Myeloma with antiviral treatment in a patient with chronic HCV infection

We report a case of a 54 year old patient with Multiple Myeloma (MM) and chronic HCV infection. In 2005 MM was diagnosed and a chemotherapy was prescribed. Before starting treatment a chronic HCV infection was found. When she came to our Institution for a second opinion, chemotherapy treatment was not considered immediately necessary so the patient was treated for the HCV chronic infection (Pegilated alpha-Interferon 180 μg/week and Ribavirin 1000 mg p.o./day). After one month of treatment she presented a reduction of Bence Jones protein (BJ) that further decreased in the following three months. The antiviral treatment was suspended after six months and a re-evaluation showed a complete viral response and a regression of MM. Sixty-eight months after the end of antiviral treatment the patient is asymptomatic and presents a condition compatible with an M-GUS. While the association between HCV infection and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is consolidated and it is clearly demonstrated that antiviral treatment in these patients can induce a high proportion of partial and complete remission, a similar effect was never described in MM. The response obtained in our patient may suggest a possible a role of HCV in the pathogenesis of MM.

Clinical analysis of stages of HBV infection in 100 cases of lymphoma

OBJECTIVE

HBV infection may cause damage to the immune system and induce lymphomas as a result. Some scholars have indicated that HBsAg(+) reflecting HBV infection may have a relationship with lymphoma development. This study was designed to find out the specific stage of HBV infection which may be related to lymphoma.

METHODS

HBV serum markers, including HBsAg, HBsAb, HBeAg, HBeAb, HBcAb were tested among 100 lymphoma patients and 100 other patients who were diagnosed with non-lymphoma diseases in the First Hospital of Jilin University from 2010.1.1 to 2012.12.31. Three subgroups were established depending on different combinations of HBV serum markers. Subgroup 1 was HBsAg(+) representing the early stage of HBV infection. Subgroup 2 was HbsAb(+) representing convalescence and Subgroup 3 was "HbsAg and HbsAb negative combined with other positive markers" representing the intermediate stage of HBV infection. Chi square tests were used to compare the rates of three subgroups in lymphoma and control groups.

RESULTS

The rates of Subgroup were 13% and 5% respectively, an association between HBsAg and lymphoma being found (P<0.05). There was no difference between rate of Subgroup 2 of lymphoma group (15%) and that of control group (16%). In lymphoma group and control group , the rate of Subgroup 3 was different (12% vs 4%). This evidence was not specific to T cell lymphoma, B cell lymphoma or Hodgkin's lymphoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Among serum markers of HBV, the combination of serum markers representing the early stage and intermediate stage of HBV infection have a relationship with lymphoma. Convalescence from HBV infection appears to have no relationship with lymphoma.

Repeat hepatectomies for hepatic malignant lymphoma and hepatocellular carcinoma associated with chronic hepatitis C: report of a case

We report a case of repeat hepatectomies for hepatic malignant lymphoma and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). A 75-year-old man with chronic hepatitis C underwent partial hepatectomy for a 25 mm hepatic tumor in S5. The histological diagnosis was diffuse large B-cell malignant lymphoma and as postoperative (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography showed no hot spots, the mass was presumed to be primary hepatic lymphoma. Thus, adjuvant systemic chemotherapy was given following the hepatectomy. Abdominal ultrasonography, done 12 months after the hepatectomy, showed a hepatic tumor in S6 and repeat partial hepatectomy was performed. This tumor was histologically diagnosed as HCC.

Investigation of residual hepatitis C virus in presumed recovered subjects

Recent studies have found hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of the majority of presumed recovered subjects. We investigated this unexpected finding using samples from patients whose HCV RNA and anti-HCV status had been serially confirmed. HCV RNA was detected in PBMCs from 66 of 67 chronic HCV carriers. Subpopulation analysis revealed that the viral load (log copies/10(6) cells) in B cells (4.14 ± 0.71) was higher than in total PBMCs (3.62 ± 0.71; P < 0.05), T cells (1.67 ± 0.88; P < 0.05), and non-B/T cells (2.48 ± 1.15; P < 0.05). HCV negative-strand RNA was not detected in PBMCs from any of 25 chronically infected patients. No residual viral RNA was detected in total PBMCs or plasma of 59 presumed recovered subjects (11 spontaneous and 48 treatment induced) using nested real-time polymerase chain reaction with a detection limit of 2 copies/μg RNA (from ≈ 1 × 10(6) cells). PBMCs from 2 healthy HCV-negative blood donors became HCV RNA positive, with B-cell predominance, when mixed in vitro with HCV RNA-positive plasma, thus passively mimicking cells from chronic HCV carriers. No residual HCV was detected in liver or other tissues from 2 spontaneously recovered chimpanzees.

CONCLUSION

(1) HCV RNA was detected in PBMCs of most chronic HCV carriers and was predominant in the B-cell subpopulation; (2) HCV detected in PBMCs was in a nonreplicative form; (3) HCV passively adsorbed to PBMCs of healthy controls in vitro, becoming indistinguishable from PBMCs of chronic HCV carriers; and (4) residual HCV was not detected in plasma or PBMCs of any spontaneous or treatment-recovered subjects or in chimpanzee liver, suggesting that the classic pattern of recovery from HCV infection is generally equivalent to viral eradication.

Hepatitis viruses and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma: A review

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) is among the haematological malignancies with high prevalence worldwide, causing estimated 355 900 new cases and 191 400 deaths in 2008. High prevalence of NHL is documented in economically more developed areas while low prevalence is observed in less developed areas of the globe. A wide array of environmental factors have been reported to be either directly involved or in modifying the risk of NHL development. In addition to these factors, a number of infectious agents, chiefly viruses have also been implicated in the development of NHL. This article reviews the available literature to discuss the role of hepatitis viruses in NHL development, possible mechanisms of lymphomagenesis and also identify the areas in which further research is required to better understand this disease. A brief discussion on the clinical aspects such as classification, staging, treatment approaches have also been included in this article.

Early-stage splenic diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is highly associated with hepatitis C virus infection

Splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) and splenic diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) are the most common types of lymphomas involving the spleen. Geographic variation in hepatitis C virus (HCV) seroprevalence is characteristic of splenic lymphomas. In Italy, HCV seroprevalence was higher in patients with SMZL and splenic DLBCL than in patients with all types of lymphoma. In Japan, HCV seroprevalence was higher in patients with splenic DLBCL than in patients with all types of lymphoma; however, HCV seroprevalence in patients with SMZL was similar to that in patients with all types of lymphoma. In this study, clinicopathological data of 74 splenic lymphoma cases between 1988 and 2011 collected from the Department of Pathology at National Taiwan University Hospital were analyzed. Serology for HCV infection was available for 41 cases. Splenic DLBCL and SMZL accounted for 36% (n = 27) and 42% (n = 31) of splenic lymphomas, respectively. Microscopically, most cases of DLBCL (26/27) presented with circumscribed tumor and most cases of SMZL (28/31) presented with white pulp expansion. HCV seroprevalence in patients with DLBCL and SMZL was 44% and 10%, respectively (7/16 vs. 2/20, p = 0.020). The pattern identified in this study is closer to that in Japan than in Italy. HCV seroprevalence in patients with early-stage (I/II) and late-stage (III/IV) DLBCL was 100% and 10%, respectively (6/6 vs. 1/10, p < 0.001). Early-stage DLBCL is clinically considered a form of primary splenic lymphoma rather than a systemic lymphoma with splenic involvement. High HCV seroprevalence in patients with early-stage DLBCL suggests a role of HCV in the pathogenesis of primary DLBCL.

Patients with activated B-cell like diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in high and low infectious disease areas have different inflammatory gene signatures

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a heterogeneous disease with an association with inflammation and viral infections. We hypothesize that environmental factors may be involved in the pathogenesis of DLBCL. In this study, we compared gene expression profiles of lymph node tissues from patients with DLBCL from two different geographical areas with diverse environmental exposures. Specimens from Egyptian and Swedish patients with DLBCL as well as controls were studied. Gene expression analysis using microarray and quantitative polymerase chain reaction demonstrated significantly higher expression of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in Swedish as compared to Egyptian patients and control materials from both countries. This was confirmed at protein level using confocal microscopy. The receptor tyrosine kinase ROR1, a "survival factor" for malignant cells, was overexpressed and significantly related to the STAT3 expression pattern. The difference in the expression of genes involved in inflammatory responses and in the tumorigenic process of DLBCL might relate to infectious agents and/or other environmental exposures.

Current understanding of lifestyle and environmental factors and risk of non-hodgkin lymphoma: an epidemiological update

The incidence rates of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) have steadily increased over the last several decades in the United States, and the temporal trends in incidence can only be partially explained by the HIV epidemic. In 1992, an international workshop sponsored by the United States National Cancer Institute concluded that there was an “emerging epidemic” of NHL and emphasized the need to investigate the factors responsible for the increasing incidence of this disease. Over the past two decades, numerous epidemiological studies have examined the risk factors for NHL, particularly for putative environmental and lifestyle risk factors, and international consortia have been established in order to investigate rare exposures and NHL subtype-specific associations. While few consistent risk factors for NHL aside from immunosuppression and certain infectious agents have emerged, suggestive associations with several lifestyle and environmental factors have been reported in epidemiologic studies. Further, increasing evidence has suggested that the effects of these and other exposures may be limited to or stronger for particular NHL subtypes. This paper examines the progress that has been made over the last twenty years in elucidating the etiology of NHL, with a primary emphasis on lifestyle factors and environmental exposures.

Hepatitis C virus infection in the immunocompromised host: a complex scenario with variable clinical impact

The relationship between Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection and immunosuppression is complex and multifaceted. Although HCV-related hepatocytolysis is classically interpreted as secondary to the attack by cytotoxic T lymphocytes against infected cells, the liver disease is usually exacerbated and more rapidly evolutive in immunosuppressed patients. This generally occurs during the immunosuppression state, and not at the reconstitution of the host response after immunosuppressive therapy discontinuation. The field of immunosuppression and HCV infection is complicated both by the different outcome observed in different situations and/or by contrasting data obtained in the same conditions, with several still unanswered questions, such as the opportunity to modify treatment schedules in the setting of post-transplant follow-up. The complexity of this field is further complicated by the intrinsic tendency of HCV infection in itself to lead to disorders of the immune system. This review will briefly outline the current knowledge about the pathogenesis of both hepatic and extrahepatic HCV-related disorders and the principal available data concerning HCV infection in a condition of impairment of the immune system. Attention will be especially focused on some conditions - liver or kidney transplantation, the use of biologic drugs and cancer chemotherapy - for which more abundant and interesting data exist.

HCV and lymphoproliferation

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a serious public health problem because of its worldwide diffusion and sequelae. It is not only a hepatotropic but also a lymphotropic agent and is responsible not only for liver injury--potentially evolving to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma--but also for a series of sometimes severely disabling extrahepatic diseases and, in particular, B-cell lymphoproliferative disorders. These latter range from benign, but prelymphomatous conditions, like mixed cryoglobulinemia, to frank lymphomas. Analogously with Helicobacter pylori related lymphomagenesis, the study of the effects of viral eradication confirmed the etiopathogenetic role of HCV and showed it is an ideal model for better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved. Concerning these latter, several hypotheses have been proposed over the past two decades which are not mutually exclusive. These hypotheses have variously emphasized the important role played by sustained stimulation of the immune system by HCV, infection of the lymphatic cells, viral proteins, chromosomal aberrations, cytokines, or microRNA molecules. In this paper we describe the main hypotheses that have been proposed with the corresponding principal supporting data.

Pathogenetic mechanisms of hepatitis C virus-induced B-cell lymphomagenesis

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is probably the most common chronic viral infection and affects an estimated 180 million people worldwide, accounting for 3% of the global population. Although the liver is considered to be the primary target, extrahepatic manifestations are well recognized among patients with chronic HCV infection. Epidemiological studies have clearly demonstrated a correlation between chronic HCV infection and occurrence of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (B-NHL). The clinical evidence that antiviral therapy has a significant role in the treatment at least of some HCV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders, especially indolent B-NHL, further supports the existence of an etiopathogenetic link. However, the mechanisms exploited by HCV to induce B-cell lymphoproliferation have so far not completely clarified. It is conceivable that different biological mechanisms, namely, chronic antigen stimulation, high-affinity interaction between HCV-E2 protein and its cellular receptors, direct HCV infection of B-cells, and "hit and run" transforming events, may be combined themselves and cooperate in a multifactorial model of HCV-associated lymphomagenesis.

‘Les liaisons dangereuses’: Hepatitis C, Rituximab and B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas

Rituximab has provided a revolutionary contribution to the treatment of B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHL). A high prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been described in B-cell NHL patients. Cases of liver dysfunction in HCV-positive patients have been reported with Rituximab-containing regimens. In this paper we review the recent data regarding the effects of Rituximab in NHL patients with HCV infection. We also added a section devoted to improving communication between oncohaematologists and hepatologists. Furthermore, we propose a common methodological ground to study hepatic toxicity emerging during chemotherapy.

Dysregulation of global microRNA expression in splenic marginal zone lymphoma and influence of chronic hepatitis C virus infection

The precise molecular pathogenesis of splenic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL) is still unknown. Clinical and epidemiological data suggest that chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection may have an etiological role in a subset of cases.We performed a large-scale microRNA (miRNA) expression profiling analysis of 381 miRNAs by quantitative reverse transcription PCR (Q-RT-PCR) of 26 microdissected splenic tissue samples (7 HCV(+) SMZL; 8 HCV(-) SMZL and 11 non-neoplastic splenic controls). Single assay Q-RT-PCR and miRNA in situ hybridization (miRNA-ISH) were used to confirm the results in an independent cohort. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering of miRNA expression profiles demonstrated a distinct signature of SMZL compared with the normal splenic marginal zone. Supervised analysis revealed differentially expressed miRNAs, including miRNAs with previously recognized tumor suppressive or oncogenic potential. Five miRNAs were found significantly overexpressed in SMZL, including miR-21, miR-155 and miR-146a, whereas seven miRNAs showed significantly reduced expression, including miR-139, miR-345, miR-125a and miR-126. Furthermore, we identified miR-26b, a miRNA known to have tumor suppressive properties, as significantly downregulated in SMZL arising in HCV-positive patients (P=0.0016). In conclusion, there is a characteristic dysregulation of miRNA expression in SMZL with a possible implication in its molecular tumorigenesis.

Hepatitis C and non-Hodgkin lymphoma: the clinical perspective

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a commonly transmitted infection that has both hepatic and extrahepatic repercussions. These range from the inflammatory to the oncologic with an undisputed link to hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Its role in the development of B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B-NHL) is becoming better understood, leading to opportunities for research, therapy, and even prevention. Research in the field has progressed significantly over the last decade, with the number of patients diagnosed with HCV and B-NHL rising incrementally. It is therefore becoming crucial to fully understand the pathobiologic link of HCV in B cell lymphomagenesis and its optimal management in the oncologic setting.

Increased hepatitis C viral load and reactivation of liver disease in HCV RNA-positive patients with onco-haematological disease undergoing chemotherapy

AIMS

To evaluate changes in Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) RNA both in plasma and Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMC) in onco-haematological patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

8 consecutive anti-HCV/HCV RNA-positive patients with onco-haematological diseases (5 with B-cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma and 3 with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia) were observed during chemotherapy and after its discontinuation. All were naïve to chemotherapy. HCV RNA was sought by Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction in Light Cycler 1.5 in plasma and PBMC samples collected before, during and after chemotherapy.

RESULTS

An increase in HCV RNA of at least 1.5 log IU/mL in plasma and 1.1 log IU/ml in PBMC was observed in all 7 patients undergoing Rituximab-based chemotherapy; these patients showed a hepatic flare after discontinuation, life-threatening in one with cirrhosis. Also the 8th patient had cirrhosis, but was treated with Rituximab-sparing chemotherapy and did not show any increase in HCV RNA or a hepatic flare.

CONCLUSION

Rituximab-based chemotherapy favours an increase in HCV RNA in onco-haematological patients; this is followed by a hepatic flare, possibly immune-mediated and life threatening in cirrhotic patients.

Plasmablastic lymphoma associated to Crohn's disease and hepatitis C virus chronic infection

Plasmablastic lymphoma is a very rare and recently-described subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. It has a poor prognosis despite intensive chemotherapy treatment. A 57-year old woman with perianal Crohn's disease receiving azathioprine and infliximab developed this type of lymphoma after a short period of time on the treatment. She also had a hepatitis C virus chronic infection which had not been diagnosed or treated before. There is no solid scientific evidence that either immunomodulators or anti-TNF drugs have a definitive role in the appearance of malignancies, and therefore there are no clear recommendations to limit their use. In these patients, there are some other factors we have to take into account, like the inflammatory bowel disease in itself and its behaviour over time, or the comorbidities of the patient, with special attention to virus infections. In this case report, we will analyse the role of these factors in the development of lymphoproliferative disorders and the recommendations given by experts to avoid their appearance.

Hepatitis C virus-related B cell subtypes in non Hodgkin's lymphoma

AIM

To evaluate if indolent B cell-non Hodgkin's lymphoma (B-NHL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in hepatitis C virus (HCV) positive patients could have different biological and clinical characteristics requiring different management strategies.

METHODS

A group of 24 HCV related B-NHL patients (11 indolent, 13 DLBCL) in whom the biological and clinical characteristics were described and confronted. Patients with DLBCL were managed with the standard of care of treatment. Patients with indolent HCV-related B-NHL were managed with antiviral treatment pegylated interferon plus ribavirin and their course observed. The outcomes of the different approaches were compared.

RESULTS

Patients with DLBCL had a shorter duration of HCV infection and a higher prevalence of HCV genotype 1 compared to patients with indolent B-NHL in which HCV genotype 2 was the more frequent genotype. Five of the 9 patients with indolent HCV-related B-NHL treated with only antiviral therapy, achieved a complete response of their onco-haematological disease (55%). Seven of the 13 DLBCL patients treated with immunochemotheraphy obtained a complete response (54%).

CONCLUSION

HCV genotypes and duration of HCV infection differed between B-NHL subtypes. Indolent lymphomas can be managed with antiviral treatment, while DLBCL is not affected by the HCV infection.

Hepatitis C virus and GBV-C virus prevalence among patients with B-cell lymphoma in different European regions: a case-control study of the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with some B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (B cell-NHLs). Patients with HCV infection frequently show co-infections with GB virus C (GBV-C, formerly known as hepatitis G virus), and some studies have suggested a higher incidence of GBV-C infection in patients with B cell-NHLs. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate the association between HCV and/or GBV-C infection and B cell-NHLs in different geographic areas. One hundred thirty-seven lymphoma cases and 125 non-lymphoma matched controls were enrolled in an international case-control study conducted in Switzerland (Bellinzona), Spain (Barcelona) and England (Southampton) on samples collected from 2001 to 2002. In Bellinzona (41 cases and 81 controls), the overall prevalence of HCV was 3.3% (4.9% in NHLs), and the overall prevalence of GBV-C was 24% (22% in NHLs). In Barcelona (46 cases and 44 controls), the prevalence of HCV was 10% (8.7% in NHLs) and the prevalence of GBV-C 20% (13% in NHLs). There was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of both infections between patients with NHL and controls. In Southampton, 50 NHL cases were analysed, none of them was found to be HCV-positive; therefore, no control group was analysed and GBV-C analysis was not performed, too. Both in Bellinzona and in Barcelona, the seropositivity rate was significantly lower for HCV than for GBV-C, suggesting that their transmission can be independent. The incidence of HCV was significantly higher in Barcelona than that in Bellinzona. This study confirmed the existence of marked geographic differences in the prevalence of HCV in NHL but cannot provide any significant evidence for an association between HCV and/or GBV-C and B-cell NHLs.