Clinicopathologic Characteristics and Outcome of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphomas Presenting With an Associated Low-Grade Component at Diagnosis

Rare incidence of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma presenting as buccal fat pad tumor: A case report

BACKGROUND

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, originates in the mucosal lining of body organs and internal cavities, including the nose, mouth, lungs, and digestive tract. The lymphoma develops when the body produces abnormal B lymphocytes. These lymphomas develop at the edge of the lymphoid tissue, called the marginal zone, and, hence, are classified as a type of marginal zone lymphomas. They are the most common type of marginal zone lymphomas although their occurrence is rare. To date, no previous cases of MALT lymphoma in the buccal fat pad have been reported.

CASE SUMMARY

We report the case of a patient who presented with a mass on the frontal cheek. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a tumor in the buccal fat pad, and histopathological and immunohistochemical findings confirmed the diagnosis of MALT lymphoma. The patient had a history of Helicobacter pylori and hepatitis C virus infection, suggesting an association between these infective agents and MALT lymphoma.

CONCLUSION

Consideration of MALT lymphoma is essential in the differential diagnosis of frontal cheek masses.

Transformation to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and its impact on survival in patients with marginal zone lymphoma: A population-based study

Some patients with marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) experience histological transformation to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Because of the paucity of long-term data on transformation, we conducted a population-based study to estimate the risk of transformation and its impact on survival in MZL. Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results database, we identified 23 221 patients with histology-proven MZL between 2000 and 2018. Competing risk method, Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression were performed to analyze time-to-event outcomes. Based on 420 events of transformation, the 10-year cumulative incidence rate of transformation is 2.23% (95% CI: 2.00%-2.46%) in MZL, 1.5% (95% CI: 1.3%-1.8%), 2.7% (95% CI: 2.3%-3.2%) and 5.8% (95% CI: 4.6%-7.1%) in extranodal, nodal and splenic MZL (EMZL, NMZL and SMZL), respectively. Patients with SMZL (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR], 2.96; 95% CI: 2.21-3.96) or NMZL (SHR, 1.49; 95% CI: 1.17-1.90) have a higher risk of transformation than those with EMZL. For each MZL subtype, patients with transformation had a significantly shorter overall survival. Patients with transformation >18 months since MZL diagnosis had longer OS than those who presented within 18 months (5-year rate, 87.4% [95% CI: 83.7%-91.2%] vs 47.9% [95% CI: 38.8%-59.0%]; P < .001). Compared to patients with matched de novo DLBCL, those whose DLBCL was transformed from MZL had a shorter OS (5-year rate, 56.6% [95% CI: 51.9%-61.8%] vs 46.1% [95% CI: 40.9%-51.9%]; P < .001). We concluded that patients with SMZL had the highest risk of transformation. Regardless of MZL subtype, transformation resulted in significantly increased mortality.

Outcome of Patients with Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Relapsing after Autologous Transplant before Availability of CAR-T Cell Treatment

Introduction

Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) following high-dose chemotherapy is applied as salvage therapy in patients with relapsed disease or as first-line consolidation in high-risk DLBCL with chemo-sensitive disease. However, the prognosis of relapsing DLBCL post-ASCT remained poor until the availability of CAR-T cell treatment. To appreciate this development, understanding the outcome of these patients in the pre-CAR-T era is essential.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 125 consecutive DLBCL patients who underwent HDCT/ASCT.

Results

After a median follow-up of 26 months, OS and PFS were 65% and 55%. Fifty-three patients (42%) had a relapse (32 patients, 60%) or refractory disease (21 patients, 40%) after a median of 3 months post-ASCT. 81% of relapses occurred within the first year post-ASCT with an OS of 19% versus 40% at the last follow-up in patients with later relapses (p=0.0022). Patients with r/r disease after ASCT had inferior OS compared to patients in ongoing remission (23% versus 96%; p<0.0001). Patients relapsing post-ASCT without salvage therapy (n=22) had worse OS than patients with 1-4 subsequent treatment lines (n=31) (OS 0% versus 39%; median OS 3 versus 25 months; p<0.0001). Forty-one (77%) of patients relapsing after ASCT died, 35 of which due to progression.

Conclusions

Additional therapies can extend OS but mostly cannot prevent death in DLBCL relapsing/refractory post-ASCT. This study may serve as a reference to emerging results after CAR-T treatment in this population.

Clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with co-existing follicular lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma components in rituximab era

PURPOSE

This single-centre study aimed to determine the clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis for patients with co-existing FL and DLBCL components (FL/DLBCL).

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed the clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients diagnosed with FL/DLBCL (n = 56) and with pure FL (n = 260) or de novo DLBCL (n = 812) (controls) between January 2013 and December 2021.

RESULTS

The median age of patients with FL/DLBCL was 52 years. The amount of the DLBCL component ranged from 5 to 95%. Among the 56 FL/DLBCL cases analysed, 67.9% were of germinal centre B-cell (GCB) origin, 26.8% non-GCB origin, and 5.3% were unclassified. The clinical features of patients with FL/DLBCL were intermediate, falling between those of FL and DLBCL. Propensity-score matching was performed for patients with similar baseline characteristics who were receiving the rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin or epirubicin, vindesine, and prednisone (R-CHOP) regimen. Patients with FL/DLBCL showed inferior outcomes compared to those with FL, with a lower complete remission (CR) rate, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS). Bone marrow involvement and B symptoms were identified as independent adverse prognostic factors for PFS among patients with FL/DLBCL. Patients with FL/DLBCL presented a lower CR rate and PFS but similar OS to those with DLBCL when receiving the R-CHOP regimen.

CONCLUSION

Patients with FL/DLBCL showed inferior treatment response and survival than those with pure FL and had a lower CR rate and PFS, but similar OS to those with DLBCL in the rituximab era.

Clinical features and outcomes of patients with follicular lymphoma: A real-world study of 926 patients in China

Background

The data about the clinical features and outcomes of Chinese patients with follicular lymphoma (FL) are limited. Here, we conducted a retrospective study to explore the initial treatment strategies and clinical outcomes of Chinese patients with FL in the real world.

Method

This study included FL patients who were newly diagnosed in Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital from March 2002 to August 2020.

Results

A total of 926 FL patients were enrolled. The median age was 54 years old, and the majority of the Chinese FL patients had advanced-stage disease and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group(ECOG) <1 but less frequently infiltrated bone marrow. After a median of 38-month follow-up, the 5-year progressive-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of grade1-3a were 57.8% and 88.7%, respectively, which both are similar to those reported in previous Chinese and Western studies. The co-existence at diagnosis of FL and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) components (FL/DLBCL) was associated with poor outcomes. The FL grades and proportion of DLBCL component in FL/DLBCL did not have an impact on PFS and OS. The most common regimen with great efficacy and risk-benefit was RCHOP-like followed by R maintenance regimen. The 5-year cumulative hazard of histological transformation (HT) was 4.7% (95% CI, 3.5-5.9); median time to transformation was 23.5 months (range, 2-146 months) after diagnosis. Three-year survival following transformation was 55% (95% CI, 40-70). Patients with stage III-IV, elevated β2 microglobulin (β2-MG), and B symptoms seemed to be more prone to progress within 24 months of frontline therapy (POD24). The FLIPI-2 showed the highest specificity to predict POD24, reflecting the prediction of correctly classifying as low-risk patients, but the FLIPI had the highest sensitivity to predict the risk of progression for critical patients.

Conclusions

We revealed the clinical characteristics and outcomes of FL patients in the real world in China, which may provide novel data on prognostic factors and primary treatment of FL, applicable to routine clinical practice.

Screening of Adverse Prognostic Factors and Construction of Prognostic Index in Previously Untreated Concurrent Follicular Lymphoma and Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

Objective

Concurrent follicular lymphoma (FL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (defined as FL/DLBCL) have been considered an important pathological feature in cell lymphoma. However, clinicopathological information and prognostic factors in these cases are scarce. The aim of this study was to construct a prediction index to compare with traditional prognostic models.

Methods

Retrospectively enrolled, previously untreated FL/DLBCL (n = 121) patients, as well as those with pure FL 1-3a (n = 471), were assessed. De novo DLBCL (n = 529) were used as controls. Kaplan-Meier curves were plotted to compare the outcomes among the three groups. Multivariate analysis identified risk factors associated with overall survival (OS) in FL/DLBCL patients. A clinicopathological prognosis index (CPPI) was developed to predict OS based on the Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The outcomes of FL/DLBCL patients were intermediate between pure FL 1-3a and de novo DLBCL patients, with a 5-year PFS of 70%, 59%, and 48% (P < 0.05) and 5-year OS of 80%, 70% and 60% (P < 0.05), respectively. Cox regression analysis showed that the prognostic factors of OS for FL/DLBCL patients included FL grade, cell of origin, and Ann Arbor stage. A nomogram and clinicopathological prognostic index (CPPI) were developed to predict the OS for FL/DLBCL patients based on these factors. The area under the curve (AUC) of the CPPI for 3- and 5-year OS prediction was 0.782 and 0.860, respectively. This was superior to that of the International Prognostic Index (IPI), Follicular Lymphoma International Prognostic Index (FLIPI), and FLIPI2 in the 0.540-0.819 (P < 0.01) range.

Conclusions

A valid OS estimation in FL/DLBCL patients, using the recommended CPPI, may be useful in routine clinical practice.

Long Spinal Cord Lesions Caused by Venous Congestive Myelopathy Associated with Intravascular Large B-cell Lymphoma

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is a subtype of B-cell lymphoma, characterized by lymphoma cell proliferation within small blood vessels. We herein describe a rare case with long spinal cord lesions caused by venous congestive myelopathy associated with IVLBCL. An 81-year-old man presented with paraplegia of the lower limbs and sensory disturbances. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed intramedullary longitudinal T2-hyperintensity lesions in the thoracic cords. The patient died three months after disease onset, and a neuropathological analysis revealed predominantly atypical B-lymphocytes located sparsely in the veins of the spinal cord. IVLBCL should be considered in the differential diagnoses of long spinal cord lesions.

Rituximab maintenance improves outcomes of transformed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a retrospective study of 519 cases with de novo diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and 62 cases with concurrent diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and follicular lymphoma

Although outcomes of transformed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) from follicular lymphoma (FL) were improved using rituximab-combined immunochemotherapy, the efficacy of subsequent rituximab maintenance (RM) remains unclear. We retrospectively analyzed the prognoses of 519 patients with de novo DLBCL and 62 patients with concurrent DLBCL and FL (concurrent-DLBCL/FL). Progression-free survival (PFS) was shorter in patients with concurrent-DLBCL/FL than in de novo DLBCL (p=.030). Twenty-four patients with concurrent-DLBCL/FL received RM after induction therapy, and they achieved better OS and PFS (p=.010 and p<.001, respectively) with lower risk of relapse (p<.001) than the non-RM group. Moreover, concurrent-DLBCL/FL showed better subsequent OS and PFS after recurrence than de novo DLBCL (p=.0083 and p=.0044, respectively). Our study indicates that in the face of a high relapse rate, concurrent-DLBCL/FL is manageable and benefits from RM.

Autologous stem cell transplantation for untreated transformed indolent B-cell lymphoma in first remission: an international, multi-centre propensity-score-matched study

High-dose chemotherapy (HDC) and autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) are used as consolidation in first remission (CR1) in some centres for untreated, transformed indolent B-cell lymphoma (Tr-iNHL) but the evidence base is weak. A total of 319 patients with untreated Tr-iNHL meeting prespecified transplant eligibility criteria [age <75, LVEF ≥45%, no severe lung disease, CR by positron emission tomography or computed tomography ≥3 months after at least standard cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone with rituximab (R-CHOP) intensity front-line chemotherapy] were retrospectively identified. Non-diffuse large B-cell lymphoma transformations were excluded. About 283 (89%) patients had follicular lymphoma, 30 (9%) marginal-zone lymphoma and six (2%) other subtypes. Forty-nine patients underwent HDC/ASCT in CR1, and a 1:2 propensity-score-matched cohort of 98 patients based on age, stage and high-grade B-cell lymphoma with MYC, BCL2 and/or BCL6 rearrangements (HGBL-DH) was generated. After a median follow-up of 3·7 (range 0·1-18·3) years, ASCT was associated with significantly superior progression-free survival [hazard ratio (HR) 0·51, 0·27-0·98; P = 0·043] with a trend towards inferior overall survival (OS; HR 2·36;0·87-6·42; P = 0·1) due to more deaths from progressive disease (8% vs. 4%). Forty (41%) patients experienced relapse in the non-ASCT cohort - 15 underwent HDC/ASCT with seven (47%) ongoing complete remission (CR); 10 chimeric antigen receptor-modified T-cell (CAR-T) therapy with 6 (60%) ongoing CR; 3 allogeneic SCT with 2 (67%) ongoing CR. Although ASCT in CR1 improves initial duration of disease control in untreated Tr-iNHL, the impact on OS is less clear with effective salvage therapies in this era of CAR-T.

Treatment outcomes of IgG4-producing marginal zone B-cell lymphoma: a retrospective case series

IgG4-producing marginal zone B-cell lymphomas (MZLs) have been recently proposed as a subtype of MZLs. Despite the abundant literature on pathophysiological features of this type of lymphoma, only a few retrospective studies pertaining to the treatment outcomes have been reported, and its prognosis remains unclear. We retrospectively analyzed seven patients with IgG4-producing MZLs diagnosed at our institute, with specific reference to treatment and outcomes. The median age was 69.0 years (55-79), and all were males. The median follow-up period was 66.6 months (8-121). All patients had localized disease; four patients had tumors of the ocular adnexa, whereas two had retroperitoneal tumors. Five patients were treated with irradiation (30 Gy/15 fr) (n = 4) or surgery (n = 1), resulting in tumor reduction. Two patients were treated by chemotherapy or irradiation. Among them, one commenced rituximab monotherapy, which led to an inadequate reduction of the tumor. Subsequent irradiation induced complete response (CR). The other patient experienced repeated relapses during follow-up and finally achieved CR by combination chemotherapy. Treatment was well tolerated in all cases, and none of the patients showed disease progression at the last follow-up visit. Our results indicate that the standard treatments for MZLs are generally appropriate for IgG4-producing MZL.

Real world data on histological transformation in patients with follicular lymphoma: incidence, clinico-pathological risk factors and outcome in a nationwide Danish cohort

We investigated incidence, risk factors and outcome for follicular lymphoma (FL) patients with histologic transformation (HT) found at primary diagnosis (discordant/composite, dc-tFL) or sequentially (s-tFL). Between 2000 and 2015, 2773 patients were identified. The majority of patients (2252, 81%) did not experience HT (nt-FL), while 224 (8%) had dc-tFL and 297 (11%) s-tFL. The risk of HT was 2.2% per year and 9.6% at 5 years. Age ≥60, a high FLIPI risk score and LDH-elevation were associated with increased risk of HT. Calculated from primary diagnosis and compared with nt-FL, 5-year overall survival (OS) was inferior in both s-tFL and dc-tFL (nt-FL: 82%, s-tFL: 68%, dc-tFL: 68%; p = .001), whereas 5-year progression-free survival (PFS) was worse only in s-tFL (s-tFL: 18%, dc-tFL: 58%, nt-FL: 60%). Calculated from time of HT, s-tFL had inferior outcome compared to dc-tFL for both OS (s-tFL: 47%, dc-tFL: 68%, p = .001) and PFS (s-tFL: 35%, dc-tFL: 58%, p = .001).

Non-diffuse large B-cell lymphoma transformation from follicular lymphoma: a single-institution study of 19 cases

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common histological transformation (HT) of follicular lymphoma (FL). Other types of HT are very rare, and their incidence, histopathology, and patient outcomes have not been sufficiently described. Here, we assessed the clinicopathological characteristics of 19 cases of non-DLBCL HT of FL in a single institution in Japan to advance the understanding of the disease. Among 889 consecutive patients diagnosed with FL between 2000 and 2018, 191 suffered HT (21%). The median follow-up period was 94 months (range = 3-225). A total of 172 patients (90%) had DLBCL transformation, whereas the remaining 19 patients (10%) exhibited non-DLBCL transformation. In the latter cases, the following diagnoses were made based on morphology, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses: classic Hodgkin lymphoma (7 patients; 4%); high-grade B-cell lymphoma (HGBL) with MYC and BCL2 rearrangements (4 patients; 2%); HGBL, not otherwise specified (4 patients; 2%); B-cell lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (2 patients; 1%); anaplastic large-cell lymphoma-like lymphoma (1 patient; 0.5%); and plasmablastic lymphoma (1 patient; 0.5%). Epstein-Barr virus-encoded RNA-1 did not associate with HT in any of the cases tested (n = 8). Patients with non-DLBCL transformation showed poor outcomes, with a median overall survival of 13 months (range = 2 days-107 months); 10 of the patients (53%) died of HT. In conclusions, non-DLBCL transformation was observed in 10% of patients with HT from FL. Our data show that timely, accurate, and comprehensive histopathological diagnosis is needed to ensure optimal treatment and improve the outcome of these patients.

Complexities in the diagnosis of large B-cell lymphomas, classic Hodgkin lymphomas and overlapping peripheral T-cell lymphomas simplified: An evidence-based guide

The diagnosis of a large B-cell lymphoma and classic Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL) is often straightforward. However, in select circumstances, these simple diagnoses can be quite complex. In part, diagnostic difficulty may be due to uncertainty in the evaluation of morphologic and immunophenotypic features along a biologic continuum, or alternatively arise from uncertainty in predicting the behavior and outcomes of patients. Here, we systematically discuss and review areas of diagnostic difficulty in the diagnosis of large B-cell lymphomas (LBCL), classic Hodgkin lymphomas (CHL) and peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCL). We provide careful data-driven analyses and evidence-based approaches to help guide pathologists and clinicians. We discuss: 1) marginal zone lymphomas with increased large cells versus diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), 2) chronic lymphocytic leukemia with expanded proliferation centers versus diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), 3) chronic lymphocytic leukemia with Hodgkin/Reed-Sternberg-like cells versus CHL arising from chronic lymphocytic leukemia, 4) complex cases of follicular lymphoma versus DLBCL, 5) PTCL with large B-cell proliferations versus PTCL with LBCL, 6) PTCL with Hodgkin/Reed-Sternberg-like cells versus CHL, and finally 7) blastoid/pleomorphic mantle cell lymphoma versus DLBCL. Our evidence and data driven approach may serve as a useful diagnostic guide.

Follicular lymphoma transforming to DLBCL and reverting back to follicular lymphoma at relapse-a case report

BACKGROUND

Transformation of low-grade follicular lymphoma to high-grade diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is known. However, the opposite is not commonly reported. In this report, we present a case of follicular lymphoma that underwent transformation to DLBCL. Three years after treatment for histologic transformation, the patient presented again with low-grade follicular lymphoma at the same site which is unusual in the natural history of follicular lymphoma.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 50-year-old female patient presented to us with complaints of slowly progressing swelling in the neck on the left side for a duration of 1 year. Past history of the patient revealed a diagnosis of follicular lymphoma in 2004 for which the patient had taken prednisolone and chlorambucil. Details of staging were not available with the patient. After a complete work-up, she was diagnosed as DLBCL, stage IIIE. She was treated with 6 cycles of CHOP regimen. She had very good response to chemotherapy. However, she defaulted and was lost to follow-up. She presented again after 3 years with history of painless progressive swelling in the right side of the neck for the last 1 year. Examination revealed cervical lymph nodes and ascites. This time, a repeat biopsy and immunohistochemistry was suggestive of follicular lymphoma. In view of significant ascites, she was started on chemotherapy with CVP regimen. After 6 cycles, she has good partial response and resolution of ascites. She is currently on follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

We have presented a case of FL that has transformed to DLBCL after 10 years of diagnosis. After HT, she was treated with CHOP chemotherapy and the patient relapsed again after 3 years with follicular lymphoma histology. This case highlights the unique and varied natural history of follicular lymphoma that may be attributed to different subclones of malignant cells that may have arisen from a common progenitor FL cell and differential effect of chemotherapy on these subclones.

Impact of concurrent indolent lymphoma on the clinical outcome of newly diagnosed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Some patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) present with a concurrent indolent lymphoma at diagnosis. Their outcomes in the rituximab era are not fully defined. Using a prospectively followed cohort of 1324 newly diagnosed DLBCL patients treated with immunochemotherapy, we defined the prevalence, characteristics, and outcome of DLBCL with concurrent indolent lymphoma. Compared with patients with DLBCL alone (n = 1153; 87.1%), patients with concurrent DLBCL and follicular lymphoma (FL) (n = 109; 8.2%) had fewer elevations in lactate dehydrogenase, lower International Prognostic Index (IPI), and predominantly germinal center B-cell-like (GCB) subtype, whereas patients with concurrent DLBCL and other indolent lymphomas (n = 62; 4.7%) had more stage III-IV disease and a trend toward higher IPI and non-GCB subtype. After adjusting for IPI, patients with concurrent DLBCL and FL had similar event-free survival (EFS) (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.95) and a trend of better overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.75) compared with patients with DLBCL alone, but nearly identical EFS (HR = 1.00) and OS (HR = 0.84) compared with patients with GCB DLBCL alone. Patients with concurrent DLBCL and other indolent lymphomas had similar EFS (HR = 1.19) and OS (HR = 1.09) compared with patients with DLBCL alone. In conclusion, DLBCL patients with concurrent FL predominantly had the GCB subtype with outcomes similar to that of GCB DLBCL patients. DLBCL patients with concurrent other indolent lymphoma had similar outcomes compared with patients with DLBCL alone. These patients should not be summarily excluded from DLBCL clinical trials.

Histological transformation in malignant lymphoma: a possible role of PET/CT and circulating tumor DNA as noninvasive diagnostic tools

Introduction: Transformation is a multi-step event wherein indolent lymphomas, such as follicular lymphomas, are converted into an aggressive subtype, such as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. This process progresses not only through mutations in several of the causative genes, such as TP53, CDKN2A/B, or MYC, but also through epigenetic or micro-environmental changes. Excisional biopsy is recommended when transformation is clinically suspected.Areas covered: The authors summarized the current knowledge regarding the clinicopathological and molecular features of transformed lymphomas and discussed the relevance of re-biopsy in the diagnosis of transformation, comparing it with noninvasive diagnostic tools [fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis].Expert opinion: Pathological confirmation by biopsy is considered the golden standard for diagnosis and is indispensable for determining subsequent treatment strategies. The potential weakness of this approach is its invasiveness and the unavailability of pathological findings outside the biopsied areas. In the context of relapse, PET/CT is used mainly for the selection of the best suitable biopsy site, while ctDNA has the potential for detecting systemic genomic changes associated with relapse before clinical presentation. Future investigations should be focused on combining biopsies with new technologies for an early and accurate diagnosis of transformation.

Clonal relationship of marginal zone lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in Sjogren's syndrome patients: case series study and review of the literature

The occurrence of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in the course of Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is considered to be equally related either to the development of DLBCL de novo or to the transformation from marginal zone lymphoma (MZL). However, the question of possible clonal relationship between MZL and DLBCL in the group of SS patients remains open. Here we present the data concerning 194 patients with lymphoma complicated SS followed up at Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology during the last 22 years. Molecular analysis of tumor cells was performed for 6 SS patients who had developed both MZL and DLBCL. To assess clonal relationship between each of the tumor pairs immunoglobulin heavy chain (IGH) gene rearrangements were identified according BIOMED-2 protocol by means of multiplex polymerase chain reaction followed by GeneScan fragment analysis. Despite different localization MZL and DLBCL were clonally related in five tumor pairs. The median time to transformation was 11 months (range 0-78 months). MZL and DLBCL were clonally related in most cases from our cohort of SS patients. No statistically significant difference in survival between patients with DLBCL transformed from MZL and patients with de novo DLBCL was found in the cohort of SS patients investigated.

Treatment Outcome in Patients with Primary or Secondary Transformed Indolent B-Cell Lymphomas

BACKGROUND

Histologic transformation (HT) of indolent B-cell lymphomas into an aggressive form can occur simultaneously (primary HT, pHT) or sequentially after a preceding diagnosis of indolent lymphoma (secondary HT, sHT). The clinical course after diagnosis of HT is variable.

OBJECTIVES

To describe the outcome of treatment in pHT and sHT patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed HT cases with an underlying follicular lymphoma, nodal marginal zone lymphoma, extranodal marginal zone lymphoma, lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, or small lymphocytic lymphoma at our institution. Kaplan-Meier estimates were used to calculate progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

Ninety-two HT patients were identified, 38 with pHT and 54 with sHT. In sHT, time-to-transformation was not influenced by the preceding treatment strategy of the indolent lymphoma component. In pHT, median PFS was 61 months (95% CI 27-61), and OS was not reached. In sHT, median PFS and OS was 14 months (95% CI 9-32) and 42 months (95% CI 16-90), respectively. Significant differences between pHT and sHT in PFS (p = 0.002; Hazard ratio [HR] 2.30, 95% CI 1.36-3.91) and OS (p = 0.0001; HR 3.30, 95% CI 1.81-6.03) were observed. Response to treatment for transformation was highly prognostic of PFS and OS (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The outcome in pHT cases is favorable and signifi-cantly better than in sHT cases. Failure to achieve a remission after treatment for transformation confers a dismal pro-gnosis.

A Novel Scoring System Based on the Level of HDL-C for Predicting the Prognosis of t-DLBCL Patients: A Single Retrospective Study

The t-DLBCL patients are generally regarded to experience a poor prognosis. However, there is little consensus to guide optimal management strategies for such patients group. The present study aimed to explore the incidence of transformation and the prognosis factors for t-DLBCL patients, thereby providing insights for clinical choices. We retrospectively investigated 46 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphomas (DLBCL) associated with an indolent small B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (iNHL) from January 2007 to June 2017 in our department. In multivariate analysis, bone marrow (BM) involvement and low level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were considered as two negatively and independently prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) (BM: p=0.007, HR 7.475, 95%CI: 1.744-32.028; HDL-C: p=0.032, HR10.037, 95%CI: 1.226-82.162). International Prognostic Index (IPI) risk group was identified as a single independent prognostic factor of progression-free survival (PFS) (p=0.048, HR 2.895, 95%CI: 1.010-8.297). A novel prognostic scoring system named BH model (BH stands for the intertwined initials of BM situation and the level of HDL-C) was further developed to stratify these patients into two risk groups, which performed well. Combining the BH scoring model and IPI scoring system could better predict the outcomes of these patients.

An update in treating transformed lymphoma

Indolent lymphomas typically have a prolonged course and favorable prognosis. Recent data support survival times that can reach several decades, even if periodic treatment is needed to manage symptoms or stabilize disease. However, all indolent lymphomas have the potential to undergo transformation to an aggressive phenotype, clinically characterized by a rapid progression of adenopathy, new-onset constitutional symptoms, or laboratory abnormalities, and the immediate need for therapeutic intervention. The most common scenario is transformation of follicular lymphoma to either diffuse large B-cell lymphoma or high-grade B-cell lymphoma with MYC and BCL2 and/or BCL6 translocations; however, other indolent subtypes such as marginal zone lymphoma, lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, small lymphocytic lymphoma/chronic lymphocytic leukemia, or even nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma, can undergo similar histologic transformation. The prognosis of transformed lymphomas has historically been quite poor, but there is ample evidence this is changing in the rituximab era. This article will provide a review of transformed lymphomas with an emphasis on treatment and the nuances of diagnosis and clinical management. Unless otherwise specified, all discussion in this review pertains to transformed follicular lymphoma which is the more common scenario and the subtype with the most robust data. In many cases, this information can be extrapolated and applied to other indolent histologies (i.e. transformed marginal zone lymphoma); however, several other clinical scenarios, such as Richter's transformation and "double hit" transformations, warrant a distinct discussion and will be reviewed separately.

Indolent lymphoma with composite histology and simultaneous transformation at initial diagnosis exhibit clinical features similar to de novo diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

While various studies characterized clinical and prognostic properties of de novo diffuse large B-Cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and transformed indolent lymphomas, the clinicopathological features of indolent lymphoma and simultaneous secondary transformation upon initial diagnosis (ssDLBCL) are insufficiently established.

Between 2010 and 2017, 247 consecutive patients admitted to our institution and treated for DLBCL were investigated for composite histology of ssDLBCL-type. Upon systematical histopathological evaluation composite histology was identified in 22/247 cases (8.9%).

The predominant histology of the underlying indolent lymphoma was follicular lymphoma of variable grading (I-IIIA; 81.8%) whereas marginal zone lymphoma represented a minor sub group (18.2%). Clinicopathological investigation revealed a high degree of concordance between ssDLBCL and de novo DLBCL upon initial diagnosis and clinical courses were shown to be strikingly similar. The predominant fraction of ssDLBCL were germinal center derived lymphomas (GCB-type) with a trend towards a superior outcome compared with non-GCB-type ssDLBCL. Additionally, we demonstrate a significant adverse prognostic impact of an underlying indolent lymphoma component other than follicular-type lymphoma (e.g. marginal zone lymphoma). Moreover, the frequency of double-hit (DHL) or double-expressor lymphomas (DEL) appears to be low.

Our findings provide substantial insight into the behavior of ssDLBCL, highlight the ramifications of the concurrent high-grade fraction within indolent lymphomas and underline therapeutic efficacy of R-CHOP type immunochemotherapy in the majority of ssDLBCL patients.

Primary spinal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma: A case report

RATIONALE

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma is an indolent B-cell lymphoma which occurs mainly in the organs having mucosal layer and owns a fairly good prognosis. To date, 7 cases of spinal primary MALT has been reported before. However, there is no consensus on the optimal adjuvant treatment modalities for primary spinal MALT. The aim of this study was to add a new case of MALT which responded well to systemic therapy to the literature and to review the current literature.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 68-year-old woman visited to our hospital due to back pain and progressive bilateral lower extremity weakness for 2 months. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spine revealed a diffusely contrast-enhancing epidural mass extending from vertebral body T6 to T8 with compression of the spinal cord. Due to the spinal cord compression, patient underwent surgical resection. Histological examination indicated monocytoid small B-cells. Immunochemical study demonstrates that most tumor cells were positive for CD20, CD21, CD45, CD79a, CD43, bcl-2 with Ki-67 labing index was 15%, but were negative for CD3, CD5 cyclin D1, BCL6, and CD23. The positron emission tomography/computer tomography (PET/CT) revealed that right iliac wing and right liver were metastases for the standard uptake value (SUV) were 9.05 and 8.35, respectively.

DIAGNOSES

Based on these findings, final diagnosis of spinal MALT lymphoma was made.

INTERVENTIONS

After the diagnosis, the patient received 6 cycles of immuno-chemotherapy and repeated intrathecal methotrexate and intrathecal cytarabine.

OUTCOMES

At 1 year follow up, no recurrence or other dissemination was detected.

LESSONS

Chemotherapy and/or radiation have been employed in larger case series. While there is no defined treatment guideline for this rare disease entity, our reported case suggests a favorable prognosis when combining both surgical and adjuvant systemic approach.

Clinicobiological features and prognostic impact of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma component in the outcome of patients with previously untreated follicular lymphoma

BACKGROUND

The co-existence at diagnosis of follicular lymphoma (FL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) components (FL/DLBCL) has been considered a transformed lymphoma and accordingly treated although clinicobiological information on these patients is scarce. The aim of this study was to analyze the initial features and outcome of FL/DLBCL patients in the rituximab era.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All patients consecutively diagnosed at a single institution with FL/DLBCL (n = 40), as well as those with pure FL (n = 328) or de novo DLBCL (n = 510) as controls.

RESULTS

The proportion of the DLBCL component was highly variable (median 50%). In 29 FL/DLBCL cases analyzed, the cell of origin was GCB in 86%, ABC in 10% and unclassifiable in 4%. NOTCH1-2 was mutated in 10% of these cases. The proportion of DLBCL component did not impact on overall survival (OS). Regarding initial characteristics, patients with FL/DLBCL were closer to FL in terms of primary nodal origin, good performance status and advanced stage, whereas the other features were intermediate between FL and DLBCL. FL/DLBCL patients were treated as DLBCL with no further intensification. Complete response and primary refractory rates were 65% and 20%, respectively, with these figures being similar to DLBCL and worse than FL. Progression-free survival and OS were intermediate between FL and DLBCL (5-year OS: 85%, 73% and 63% for FL, FL/DLBCL and DLBCL, respectively). FL/DLBCL histology did not reach independent prognostic value for OS in the multivariate analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcome of FL/DLBCL patients is not worse than that of de novo DLBCL. These cases should be treated with immunochemotherapy as DLBCL, but intensification with ASCT may not be necessary. The biological insights of FL/DLBCL warrants further genetic and molecular studies.

Transformation of marginal zone lymphoma (and association with other lymphomas)

Marginal zone lymphomas (MZL) are a diverse group of indolent lymphoproliferative disorders that comprise three subtypes: nodal, splenic and mucosal associated marginal zone lymphomas (MALT). Histologic transformation (HT) to an aggressive lymphoma is a rare event that can occur in any subtype, and at lower frequency compared to other indolent non Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) like follicular lymphoma. There are few data directly associated with risk and prognosis of transformation in MZL. However, recent advances in the understanding of molecular and genetic features of MALT have contributed to an evolving appreciation of HT in this disease. Optimal treatment of HT of MZL remains unknown. Much of the approach to managing transformed MZL is extrapolated from other indolent NHLs.

Clinical characteristics of primary gastric lymphoma detected during screening for gastric cancer in Korea

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The role of screening endoscopy in primary gastric lymphoma (PGL) has not been investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical characteristics and outcomes of PGLs detected by screening endoscopy in the high prevalence area of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study enrolled consecutive subjects who were diagnosed with PGL by endoscopic screening in Seoul National University Hospital Healthcare System Gangnam Center, Seoul, Korea, between October 2003 and September 2013. The characteristics and outcome of screening-detected patients (screening group) were compared with consecutive subjects diagnosed with PGL in the outpatient clinic (outpatient group).

RESULTS

Of the 105 194 recipients of screening upper endoscopy, 52 (0.049%) were found to have PGL. The median age was 54.2 years (range 23-79), and 65.4% were women. The proportion of PGL to gastric malignancy was 12.1% (52/429) overall, but >30% (25/73) in middle-aged (40-59) women. PGLs in the screening group were more likely to be mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma (98.1% vs 60.0%, P < 0.001) and treated with H. pylori eradication alone (90.0% vs 48.1%, P < 0.001) than those in the outpatient group. Moreover, the screening group showed better 5-year overall survival (100.0% vs 89.3%, P = 0.016) and progression-free survival (94.9% vs 83.4%, P = 0.040) than the outpatient group.

CONCLUSIONS

In Korea, a high prevalence area of H. pylori infection, PGL seems more prevalent than in Western countries. Endoscopic screening may help to detect early stage H. pylori-positive mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma. A high index of suspicion is needed, especially in middle-aged women.

IgG4-producing lymphoma arising in a patient with IgG4-related disease

We herein report a case in which an IgG4-producing lymphoma arose in a patient with a previous diagnosis consistent with an IgG4-related disease. A 43-year-old man presented with enlarged cervical lymph nodes and was treated with steroids and radiation for what was initially assumed to be Kimura's disease, although the lesions were later histologically re-diagnosed as IgG4-related lymphadenopathy. Fourteen years later, when the patient was 58-years-old, he presented with retroperitoneal fibrosis and swollen lymph nodes. The suspicious lesions were not histologically examined as the patient did not give consent. However, the serum IgG4 concentration was high (1400 mg/dL) and he was clinically diagnosed with systemic IgG4-related disease. Although steroid administration reduced the size of the lesions, tapering the dose finally resulted in systemic, prominently enlarged lymph nodes. Analysis of the biopsy specimen revealed that these multiple lymph node lesions were marginal zone B cell lymphomas that themselves expressed IgG4. Complete remission was achieved after a total of six courses of chemotherapy including rituximab. This case suggests that the infiltrating IgG4-expressing cells observed in IgG4-related disease can clonally expand to malignant lymphomas.

Outcomes of transformed follicular lymphoma in the modern era: a report from the National LymphoCare Study (NLCS)

We assessed the incidence, prognostic features, and outcomes associated with transformation of follicular lymphoma (FL) among 2652 evaluable patients prospectively enrolled in the National LymphoCare Study. At a median follow-up of 6.8 years, 379/2652 (14.3%) patients transformed following the initial FL diagnosis, including 147 pathologically confirmed and 232 clinically suspected cases. Eastern Cancer Oncology Group performance status >1, extranodal sites >1, elevated lactate dehydrogenase, and B symptoms at diagnosis were associated with transformation risk. Relative to observation, patients initiating treatment at diagnosis had a reduced risk of transformation (hazard ratio [HR], 0.58; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.46-0.75). The risk of transformation was similar in patients treated with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone compared with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone (adjusted HR, 0.94; 95% CI, 0.62-1.42). Maintenance rituximab was associated with reduced transformation risk (HR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.46-0.97). Five-year survival from diagnosis was significantly worse for patients with vs without transformation (75%, 95% CI, 70-79 vs 85%, 95% CI, 83-86). The median overall survival post-transformation was 5 years. Forty-seven patients with evidence of transformation at the time of diagnosis shared similar prognostic factors and survival rates to those without transformation. Improved outcomes for transformation in the modern era are suggested by this observational study. This trial is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT00097565.

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.

Ongoing challenge of optimal patient selection for CNS prophylaxis in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma

SUMMARY 

CNS relapse is a devastating and frequently lethal complication in patients with lymphoma, and selecting patients to receive CNS-directed prophylaxis is a common and frequently challenging decision for the clinician. Histologic subtype, anatomic location, molecular and clinical risk factors may all be used to stratify patients for CNS risk. In this paper we focus on these issues and attempt to provide practical guidance for the clinician in selecting which patients with lymphoma may benefit from CNS prophylaxis.

Current role of FDG PET/CT in lymphoma

The management approach in Hodgkin's (HL) and high-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) has shifted towards reducing the toxicity and long-term adverse effects associated with treatment while maintaining favorable outcomes in low-risk patients. The success of an individualized treatment strategy depends largely on accurate diagnostic tests both at staging and during therapy. In this regard, positron emission tomography (PET) using fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) with computed tomography (CT) has proved effective as a metabolic imaging tool with compelling evidence supporting its superiority over conventional modalities, particularly in staging and early evaluation of response. Eventually, this modality was integrated into the routine staging and restaging algorithm of lymphomas. This review will summarize the data on the proven and potential utility of PET/CT imaging for staging, response assessment, and restaging, describing current limitations of this imaging modality.

Survival of patients with transformed lymphoma in the rituximab era

In the pre-rituximab era, transformation of indolent B-cell lymphoma to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) was associated with an extremely poor outcome and a median post-transformation survival ranging from 1 to 2 years. We evaluated the impact of rituximab-cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, vincristine, prednisone (R-CHOP) on the survival outcomes of transformed lymphoma compared with de novo DLBCL. Between 2002 and 2010, 317 DLBCL patients who were consecutively diagnosed and treated with R-CHOP were identified at our institution. Patients with transformed lymphoma were included if they had not previously received R-CHOP. Patient characteristics, treatment, and outcome data were retrospectively collected. Sixty patients (19 %) had transformed lymphoma of which 37 (62 %) had transformed from follicular lymphoma, 50 (83 %) were chemotherapy naïve, and 58 (96 %) were rituximab naïve at the time of treatment. With a median follow-up of 31.4 months, 231 patients achieved either complete response or complete response unconfirmed (73 %) with no significant difference between de novo DLBCL (n = 192, 75 %) and the transformed group (n = 39, 65 %) (P = 0.25). Six patients (15 %) relapsed in the transformed group at a median time to relapse of 29.3 months. The 2-year and 5-year overall survivals for all patients were 82 and 72 %, respectively. The overall and progression-free survivals for transformed lymphoma and de novo DLBCL were not statistically different (P = 0.45 and P = 0.38, respectively). With R-CHOP chemotherapy, the prognosis of transformed lymphoma in patients with minimal chemotherapy exposure for indolent disease is similar to that of de novo DLBCL.

When should FDG-PET be used in the modern management of lymphoma?

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a functional imaging technique that, combined with computerized tomography (PET-CT), is increasingly used in lymphoma. Most subtypes accumulate fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) and the increased sensitivity of PET-CT, especially for extranodal disease, compared to CT, makes PET-CT an attractive staging tool. The availability of a staging PET-CT scan also improves the accuracy of subsequent response assessment. 'Interim' PET-CT can be used to assess early response and end-of-treatment PET-CT assesses remission. Clinical trials are currently seeking to establish whether the predictive value of PET-CT can be successfully used to guide individual treatment to reduce toxicity and/or to improve outcomes. Standardized methods for performing and reporting PET have been developed in the context of trials. The role of PET in transplantation selection is currently evolving, as it appears to be more accurate and prognostic than CT. The role of FDG PET-CT throughout the management course in patients with lymphoma is explored in this review, with areas discussed that may limit the use of PET-CT imaging which clinicians should be familiar with to inform practice.

PET-CT staging of DLBCL accurately identifies and provides new insight into the clinical significance of bone marrow involvement

Routine staging by PET-CT identifies all clinically relevant marrow involvement by DLBCL. Cases with marrow involvement identified by PET-CT have PFS and overall survival similar to stage IV cases without marrow involvement.

Clinicopathological prognostic indicators in 107 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma transformed from follicular lymphoma

Follicular lymphoma (FL) frequently transforms into diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). To clarify the associated clinicopathological prognostic parameters, we examined the correlation of 11 histopathological parameters with progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in 107 consecutive patients who had DLBCL with pre-existing (asynchronous) or synchronous FL. The patients comprised 58 men and 49 women with a median age of 56 years. For DLBCL, the complete response rate was 81%, overall response rate was 88%, and 5-year PFS and OS rates were 55% and 79%, respectively. Immunohistochemical analysis of the DLBCL component revealed the following positivity rates: CD10, 64%; Bcl-2, 83%; Bcl-6, 88%; MUM1, 42%; GCB, 82%; cMyc index ≥80%, 17%; and Ki-67 index ≥90%, 19%. IGH/BCL2 fusion was positive in 57% of DLBCL cases. In univariate analyses, asynchronous FL and DLBCL (24%, P = 0.021), 100% proportion of DLBCL (29%, P = 0.004), Bcl-2 positivity (P = 0.04), and high Ki-67 index (P = 0.003) were significantly correlated with shorter PFS. Asynchronous FL and DLBCL (P = 0.003), 100% proportion of DLBCL (P = 0.001), and high Ki-67 index (P = 0.004) were significantly correlated with shorter OS. In a multivariate analysis, asynchronous FL and DLBCL (P = 0.035) and 100% proportion of DLBCL (P = 0.016) were significantly correlated with shorter OS. Thus, asynchronism and 100% proportion of DLBCL, that is, FL relapsed as pure DLBCL, or FL and DLBCL at different sites, were significant predictors of unfavorable outcome of patients with DLBCL transformed from FL.

Superior long-term outcome of patients with early transformation of non-Hodgkin lymphoma undergoing stem cell transplantation

In this study, we discuss the results of patients with transformed lymphoma (TL) undergoing stem cell transplantation (SCT). Because of the paucity of literature on the treatment of TL, deciding on the optimal evidence-based treatment is a challenge. Herein, our results indicate that patients with early transformation may benefit the most from SCT.

BACKGROUND

Transformed non-Hodgkin's lymphoma arising from follicular lymphoma (TL) carries a poor prognosis with a median survival time after transformation reported to be approximately 1 year.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty-one consecutive patients with TL received SCT between January 2000 and December 2010 (autologous SCT, n = 44, allogeneic SCT, n = 7).

RESULTS

Thirty-six (70.5%) patients had an early transformation, defined as histologic evidence of transformation at the time of initial diagnosis or transformation within 1 year of follicular lymphoma. Fifteen patients had early stage disease (29%) and 36 (71%) had advanced stage disease on presentation. At the time of analysis, 37 patients were alive with an estimated 5-year overall survival (OS) and event free survival (EFS) of 61.8% and 45%, respectively. OS and EFS were not significantly different between types of transplant procedure. The major cause of transplant failure was disease recurrence, with estimated 2-year relapse rate of 37.4%. Importantly, early transformation was independently associated with improved OS (hazard ratio [HR] 3.29; P = .028) and EFS (HR 2.49; P = .029).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that an aggressive transplant approach should be considered first in patients with TL and emphasize the need to incorporate novel strategies (eg, immunomodulation) early post-SCT to prevent relapses as disease recurrence remains the major cause of failure in heavily pretreated patients.

Comparison of outcomes after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patients with follicular lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma associated with follicular lymphoma, or de novo diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

The outcome after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HCT) for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) associated with follicular lymphoma (FL), which includes DLBCL with pre- or co-existing FL, remains controversial, and few previous reports have compared the outcomes after allo-HCT for FL, DLBCL associated with FL, and de novo DLBCL. We retrospectively analyzed 97 consecutive patients with FL (n = 46), DLBCL associated with FL (n = 22), or de novo DLBCL (n = 29) who received allo-HCT at our institute between 2000 and 2010. With a median follow-up of 53 months, the 5-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were, respectively, 77% and 70% for FL, 62% and 57% for DLBCL associated with FL, and 26% and 23% for de novo DLBCL. The 5-year cumulative incidences of non-relapse mortality and disease progression/relapse were, respectively, 16% and 15% for FL, 19% and 24% for DLBCL associated with FL, and 36% and 41% for de novo DLBCL. By a multivariate analysis, the OS and PFS for DLBCL associated with FL were significantly better than those for de novo DLBCL, whereas they were not significantly different from those for FL. These results suggest that allo-HCT may be a promising option for patients with not only advanced FL but also DLBCL associated with FL.

Treatment options for transformed lymphoma: incorporating allogeneic stem cell transplantation in a multimodality approach

Transformed non-Hodgkin lymphoma (TL) arising from follicular lymphoma carries a poor prognosis, and the median survival time after transformation is approximately 10 to 12 months. Standard chemotherapy and radioimmunotherapy have offered promising responses; however, the duration of response does not appear to last long. Several studies evaluating the role of autologous stem cell transplantation (auto-SCT) as a salvage regimen have been reported, and a subset of patients benefit from this modality of treatment. With an improvement in supportive care, outcome after allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) has been improved significantly over past decades; however, very limited data are available for TL. In the era of emerging novel therapies, the actual timing, optimal conditioning regimens, and long-term impact of the type of stem cell transplantation (auto-SCT vs allo-SCT) is unclear. This review addresses the approaches to the management of patients with TL.

Transformation of Indolent B-Cell Lymphomas

Histologic transformation (HT) to an aggressive lymphoma is a well-described event in the natural history and clinical course of patients with so-called indolent lymphomas. This phenomenon has been studied most extensively in patients with follicular lymphoma and subsequent transformation to a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, with little literature on HT in nonfollicular lymphomas. Despite a considerable body of information on the pathologic and molecular events associated with HT, its pathogenesis has remained elusive and the molecular information available has not been translated into clinical advances. It remains unclear if there is already a predisposition to HT and whether this can be detected at the time of diagnosis. The rituximab era has been characterized by a significant improvement in the prognosis of patients with B-cell lymphomas, but HT remains one of the most important challenges in the management of patients with indolent lymphoma, the difficulties starting with the diagnosis and definition of HT and ending with the appropriate management and treatment of the event. Going forward, it is crucial to incorporate HT as a major end point in clinical trials and to include patients with HT as subject of such studies if we are to see meaningful progress in the future.

Dural MALT lymphoma with disseminated disease

Central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma involving the dura mater is very rare and histologically is usually a subtype of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) termed mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma. We present a case of a 46-year old woman with dural MALT lymphoma that was found to also involve a lacrimal gland, inguinal lymph nodes, and bone marrow. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed an extra-axial enhancing mass approximately 6 cm in maximum diameter along the right frontotemporal convexity. Histopathology of the resected dural mass showed MALT lymphoma expressing CD20, CD52, CD19, and CD38. Molecular studies of the B-cell receptor heavy chain demonstrated monoclonality at the involved sites. The patient was treated with four cycles of fludarabine, mitoxantrone, and rituximab with complete remission. She had recurrence in the subcutaneous tissue of the back at 12 months but has remained free of intracranial disease for 31 months. A review of the literature reveals 57 cases of dural MALT lymphoma. Only 4 had extra-CNS involvement at presentation, and only 3 had local recurrence of the dural tumor. Because of the indolent behavior of this tumor, the intracranial portion can be treated conservatively after resection with or without chemotherapy. Deferral of brain radiation can be considered with close clinical and neuroimaging follow up.