EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders: classification and treatment

Identification of PATL1 as a prognostic and immunotherapeutic predictive factor for nasal-type natural killer/T-cell lymphoma and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

This research examines the function of protein associated with topoisomerase II homolog 1 (PATL1) in nasal-type natural killer/T-cell lymphoma (NKTCL) and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We analyzed bulk RNA-seq data from NKTCL, nasal polyps, and normal nasal mucosa, identifying 439 differentially expressed genes. Machine learning algorithms highlighted PATL1 as a hub gene. PATL1 exhibited significant upregulation in NKTCL and HNSCC tumor samples in comparison to normal tissues, showing high diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 1.000) for NKTCL. Further analysis of local hospital data identified PATL1 as an independent prognostic risk factor for NKTCL. Data analysis of TCGA and GEO datasets revealed that high PATL1 expression correlated with poorer prognosis in HNSCC patients (p < 0.05). We also constructed a PATL1-based nomogram, which emerged as an independent prognostic predictor for HNSCC after addressing missing values. Additionally, we found a strong correlation between PATL1 and various immune cell infiltrates (e.g., activated.CD4 T cell), and a significant association with the expression of 37 immune checkpoints genes (e.g., CTLA4, PDCD1) and 20 N6-methyladenosine-related genes (e.g., ZC3H13, METTL3) (all p < 0.05). Both TCIA and TIDE algorithms suggested that PATL1 could potentially predict immunotherapy efficacy (p < 0.05). Cellular experiments demonstrated that transfection with a silencing plasmid of PATL1 significantly inhibited the malignant behaviors of SNK6 and FaDu cell lines(p < 0.05). In conclusion, our findings suggest that PATL1 may serve as a valuable prognostic and predictive biomarker in NKTCL and HNSCC, highlighting its significant role in these cancers.

Expression of the immune checkpoint molecules PD‑L1 and PD‑1 in EBV‑associated lymphoproliferative disorders: A meta‑analysis

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been implicated in the development of a wide range of lymphoproliferative disorders. In this process, the role of programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) has remained to be clarified. A meta-analysis of 20 studies was performed and risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to evaluate the association between PD-L1/PD-1 expression and the status of EBV infection. The results showed that the expression level of PD-L1 in tumor cells was significantly higher in EBV+ cases with a pooled RR of 2.26 (95% CI, 1.63-3.14; P<0.01), particularly in subtypes of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and classical Hodgkin lymphoma. Similarly, EBV infection increased the expression of PD-L1 in immune cells with a pooled RR of 2.20 (95% CI, 1.55-3.12; P<0.01). In subtypes of DLBCL and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder, the expression of PD-L1 in immune cells is increased in EBV+ cases. Regarding the expression level of PD-1 in tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), no significance was found between EBV infection and PD-1 expression, with a pooled RR of 1.10 (95% CI, 0.81-1.48; P>0.05). The present meta-analysis demonstrated that in EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders, EBV infection was associated with the expression level of PD-L1 in tumor cells and immune cells but was not associated with the expression of PD-1 in TILs.

EBV Reactivation and Lymphomagenesis: More Questions than Answers

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous herpesvirus that affects almost all humans and establishes lifelong infections by infecting B-lymphocytes leading to their immortalization. EBV has a discrete life cycle with latency and lytic reactivation phases. EBV can reactivate and cause lymphoproliferation in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals. There is sparse literature on monitoring protocols for EBV reactivation and no standardized treatment protocols to treat EBV-driven lymphoproliferation.

RECENT FINDINGS

While there are no FDA-approved therapies to treat EBV, there are several strategies to inhibit EBV replication. These include immunosuppression reduction, nucleoside analogs, HDAC inhibitors, EBV-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTLs), and monoclonal antibodies, such as rituximab. There is currently an open clinic trial combining the use of a HDAC inhibitor, nanatinostat, and ganciclovir to treat refractory/relapsed EBV lymphomas. Another novel therapy includes tabelecleucel, which is an allogenic EBV-directed T-cell immunotherapy that was approved by the European Medicines Agency, but is currently only available in the US for limited use in relapsed or refractory EBV-positive PTLD. Further research is needed to establish EBV monitoring protocols in high-risk populations, such as those with autoimmune disease, cancer, HIV, or receiving immunosuppressive therapy. Additionally, standardized treatments for both the prevention of EBV reactivation in high-risk populations and treatment of EBV reactivation and lymphoproliferation need to be established.

A unique case of a fulminant clonal CD8-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder with CNS involvement

BACKGROUND

This is a unique case that describes the presentation, investigations, and disease trajectory of a fatal, clonal CD8-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder in an otherwise healthy and immunocompetent patient with Epstein-Barr virus seronegative status. Central nervous system involving T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders are rare and typically encountered in the setting of immunocompromise. These disorders are often associated with aggressive cytomorphological features and characteristic magnetic resonance imaging patterns, which were not seen in this case.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here we describe a case of a 65 year-old male presenting with neuropsychiatric symptoms, truncal ataxia, and falls who's bone marrow, cerebrospinal fluid, and brain biopsy were consistent with a clonal CD8-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder that did not meet existing World Health Organization criteria for classification as T-cell lymphoma. The patient was treated with intrathecal methotrexate resulting in transient improvement of his symptoms followed by disease progression and death related to aspiration.

CONCLUSIONS

This case highlights the importance of urgent and comprehensive work-up in patients with clinical features suggestive of lymphoma with central nervous system involvement, despite atypical imaging features and lack of cytomorphological features satisfying current World Health Organization classification criteria.

Recent Updates on Viral Oncogenesis: Available Preventive and Therapeutic Entities

Human viral oncogenesis is a complex phenomenon and a major contributor to the global cancer burden. Several recent findings revealed cellular and molecular pathways that promote the development and initiation of malignancy when viruses cause an infection. Even, antiviral treatment has become an approach to eliminate the viral infections and prevent the activation of oncogenesis. Therefore, for a better understanding, the molecular pathogenesis of various oncogenic viruses like, hepatitis virus, human immunodeficiency viral (HIV), human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), could be explored, especially, to expand many potent antivirals that may escalate the apoptosis of infected malignant cells while sparing normal and healthy ones. Moreover, contemporary therapies, such as engineered antibodies antiviral agents targeting signaling pathways and cell biomarkers, could inhibit viral oncogenesis. This review elaborates the recent advancements in both natural and synthetic antivirals to control viral oncogenesis. The study also highlights the challenges and future perspectives of using antivirals in viral oncogenesis.

Epstein-Barr virus genotype-1 and Mediterranean + strain in gastric cancer biopsies of Ghanaian patients

Gastric cancer (GC) prevalence is on the increase in Ghana, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of the factors that have been implicated in the etiology of the cancer. It is therefore important to know the contribution of EBV genotype and strains that are associated with GC. In this study, we aimed at genotyping EBV and determining predominant strains in GC biopsies in Ghanaian patients. Genomic DNA was extracted from 55 GC biopsies (cases) and 63 normal gastric tissues (controls) were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using specific primers for EBV detection and genotyping followed by PCR fragments sequencing. Epstein-Barr virus positivity were 67.3% and 49.2% in the GC and normal biopsies, respectively. Both cases and controls had the Mediterranean + strain of EBV. The predominant genotype of the virus in the GC cases was genotype-1 (75.7%) compared to 66.7% of genotype-2 among the control group. Infection was associated with GC in the study population (OR = 2.11, P = 0.014, 95% CI: 1.19 - 3.75), and EBV genotype-1 significantly increased the risk of GC (OR = 5.88, P < 0.0001, 95% CI: 3.18-10.88). The mean EBV load in the cases (3.507 ± 0.574) was significantly higher than in the controls (2.256 ± 0.756) (P < 0.0001). We conclude that EBV, especially Mediterranean + genotype-1, was the predominant strain in GC biopsies and GC type or progression is independent of the viral load.

Lymphomatoid granulomatosis with the central nervous system involvement as the main manifestation: a case report

BACKGROUND

Lymphomatoid granulomatosis (LyG) is a rare extralymphatic lymphoproliferative disease characterized by lymphocytic invasion into vascular walls and damage to blood vessels. The lungs are affected in 90% of LyG cases, followed by the skin, central nervous system (CNS), kidneys and liver.

CASE PRESENTATION

Here we report a case of a young woman with LyG, with CNS involvement as the initial clinical manifestation. Computer tomography (CT) scans showed multiple nodular, patchy and flocculent high-density shadows in both lungs without mediastinal lymph node enlargement. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed multiple abnormal signal intensities in the right cerebellar hemisphere, frontal, parietal and temporal lobes, and dorsal brainstem, which became patchy and annular after enhancement. The post-operative pathological analysis of lesion samples confirmed the diagnosis of grade II LyG.

CONCLUSIONS

LyG should be concerned in young adults showing multiple radiological brain and lung lesions. Resection and postoperative medication of steroid hormones and IFN-α may be effective in the treatment of LyG.

Co-Detection of EBV and Human Polyomavirus JCPyV in a Case of AIDS-Related Multifocal Primary Central Nervous System Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma

The human neurotropic Polyomavirus JCPyV is the widespread opportunistic causative pathogen of the fatal demyelinating disease progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy; however, it has also been implicated in the oncogenesis of several types of cancers. It causes brain tumors when intracerebrally inoculated into rodents, and genomic sequences of different strains and expression of the viral protein large T-Antigen have been detected in a wide variety of glial brain tumors and CNS lymphomas. Here, we present a case of an AIDS-related multifocal primary CNS lymphoma in which JCPyV genomic sequences of the three regions of JCPyV and expression of T-Antigen were detected by PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. No capsid proteins were detected, ruling out active JCPyV replication. Sequencing of the control region revealed that Mad-4 was the strain of JCPyV present in tumor cells. In addition, expression of viral proteins LMP and EBNA-1 from another ubiquitous oncogenic virus, Epstein-Barr, was also detected in the same lymphocytic neoplastic cells, co-localizing with JCPyV T-Antigen, suggesting a potential collaboration between these two viruses in the process of malignant transformation of B-lymphocytes, which are the site of latency and reactivation for both viruses.

An Overview of Gene Editing Modalities and Related Non-clinical Testing Considerations

Gene therapy has become an important modality for a wide range of therapeutic indications with a rapid increase in the number of therapeutic candidates being developed in this field. Understanding the molecular biology underlying the gene therapy is often critical to develop appropriate safety assessment strategies. We aimed to discuss some of the commonly used gene therapy modalities and common preclinical toxicology testing considerations when developing gene therapies. Non-viral gene delivery methods such as electroporation, microinjection, peptide nanoparticles and lipid nanoparticles are deployed as innovative molecular molecular construct which are included in the design of novel gene therapies and the associated molecular biology mechanisms have become relevant knowledge to non-clinical toxicology. Viral gene delivery methodologies including Adenovirus vectors, Adeno-Associated virus vectors and Lentivirus gene therapy vectors have also advanced considerably across numerous therapeutic areas, raising unique non-clinical toxicology and immunological considerations. General toxicology, biodistribution and tumorigenicity are the pillars of non-clinical safety testing in gene therapies. Evaluating the tumorigenicity potential of a gene editing therapy often leverages molecular pathology while some translational challenges remain. Toxicology study design is entering a new era where science-driven customized approaches and program specific considerations have become the norm.

LMP1 Induces p53 Protein Expression via the H19/miR-675-5p Axis

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a ubiquitous oncogenic herpesvirus, infects more than 90% of the adult population worldwide. The long noncoding RNA H19 is downregulated in EBV-positive gastric cancer (EBVaGC) and nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC). In this study, we found that loss of H19 is caused by hypermethylation status of the H19 promoter in EBV-positive GC and NPC cell lines. Furthermore, latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1), encoded by EBV, induced H19 promoter hypermethylation and deregulated the expression of H19 by upregulating DNMT1 expression. Transwell assays showed that H19 promoted cell migration. Furthermore, H19 promoted cell proliferation and inhibited apoptosis in CCK-8 and flow cytometry assays, respectively. p53, a well-known tumor suppressor, was upregulated in EBVaGC and NPC cell lines. miR-675-5p derived from H19 inhibited p53 protein expression by targeting the 3' untranslated region of the gene. Overall, we found that LMP1 induced p53 protein expression via the H19/miR-675-5p axis in EBVaGC and NPC. LMP1 induced H19 promoter hypermethylation, which repressed the expression of H19 and miR-675-5p and caused p53 protein overexpression in EBVaGC and NPC cells. IMPORTANCE Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the first virus to be known to have direct association with human cancer and to be considered as an important DNA tumor virus. The EBV life cycle consists of both latent and lytic modes of infection in B lymphocytes and epithelial cells. The persistence of EBV genomes in malignant cells promoted cell growth. p53, acting as a critical gatekeeper tumor suppressor, is involved in multiple virus-mediated tumorigeneses. Overexpression of p53 inhibits the ability of BZLF1 (EBV-encoded immediate early gene) to disrupt viral latency. In our study, we found LMP1 induces H19 promoter hypermethylation, which represses the expression of H19 and miR-675-5p and results in p53 protein overexpression in EBVaGC and NPC cells. These observations suggest a new mechanism of aberrant expression of p53 by LMP1, which facilitates EBV latency.

Primary Cutaneous Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma Arising in a Patient with Rhupus Syndrome and Sjogren's Syndrome

Rhupus syndrome, as an overlap syndrome of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is relatively rare because of their substantially different immunopathological mechanisms. Herein, we report the first case of primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (PC-ALCL) in a patient with rhupus syndrome and Sjogren's syndrome and review the relevant literature. A 52-year-old Chinese woman with a history of rhupus syndrome and Sjogren's syndrome was treated with methotrexate, who developed gradually increasing nodules on the waist. Histopathological studies showed that the dermis and subcutaneous tissue were infiltrated with medium-to-large, atypical lymphocytes with the oval nucleus. The tumor cells showed CD3-, CD4-, CD8-, CD30+, LCA+, and EBV-encoded RNA (EBER) in situ hybridization (ISH) was positive. Therefore, the patient was diagnosed with PC-ALCL. Both immune disorders and EBV infection may be related to the onset of PL-ALCL, and further studies are needed to clarify the pathogenesis.

Treatment Advances in EBV Related Lymphoproliferative Diseases

Epstein Barr virus (EBV) can affect 90% of the human population. It can invade B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes and natural killer cells of the host and remain in the host for life. The long latency and reactivation of EBV can cause malignant transformation, leading to various lymphoproliferative diseases (LPDs), including EBV-related B-cell lymphoproliferative diseases (EBV-B-LPDs) (for example, Burkitt lymphoma (BL), classic Hodgkin's lymphoma (cHL), and posttransplantation and HIV-related lymphoproliferative diseases) and EBV-related T-cell lymphoproliferative diseases (EBV-T/NK-LPDs) (for example, extranodal nasal type natural killer/T-cell lymphoma (ENKTCL), aggressive NK cell leukaemia (ANKL), and peripheral T-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (PTCL-NOS). EBV-LPDs are heterogeneous with different clinical features and prognoses. The treatment of EBV-LPDs is usually similar to that of EBV-negative lymphoma with the same histology and can include chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). However, problems such as serious toxicity and drug resistance worsen the survival prognosis of patients. EBV expresses a variety of viral and lytic proteins that regulate cell cycle and death processes and promote the survival of tumour cells. Based on these characteristics, a series of treatment strategies for EBV in related malignant tumours have been developed, such as monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint inhibitors, cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and epigenetic therapy. These new individualized therapies can produce highly specific killing effects on tumour cells, and nontumour cells can be protected from toxicity. This paper will focus on the latest progress in the treatment of EBV-LPDs based on pathological mechanisms.

HIV/AIDS Associated Lymphoma: Review

Lymphoma is one of the hematologic malignancies that occur at a higher rate in human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals. It is one of the most frequent neoplastic causes of death in those individuals. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Hodgkin’s lymphomas are acquired immunodeficiency syndrome defining lymphoma and non-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome defining lymphoma, respectively. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is the most common type of lymphoma in human immunodeficiency virus-positive people. The lymphoma that develops in patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is heterogeneous in terms of morphology, pathogenesis pathways, and cellular derivation. A narrative review was conducted on the basis of relevant literature on the current topic to summarize the current epidemiology, pathogenesis, laboratory diagnosis, and treatment of lymphoma in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients. The finding showed that although the incidence of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma has decreased after the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy, it has remained higher in human immunodeficiency virus-infected people than in the general population. On the other hand, the incidence of Hodgkin’s lymphoma has increased after the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy. Therefore, it is recommended that people living with human immunodeficiency virus/ acquired immunodeficiency syndrome be screened for the development of lymphoma to increase their survival time and quality of life, and further research is required regarding the pathogenesis, treatment, and laboratory diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus/ acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-associated lymphoma.

How Does Epstein–Barr Virus Interact With Other Microbiomes in EBV-Driven Cancers?

The commensal microbiome refers to a large spectrum of microorganisms which mainly consists of viruses and bacteria, as well as some other components such as protozoa and fungi. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is considered as a common component of the human commensal microbiome due to its spread worldwide in about 95% of the adult population. As the first oncogenic virus recognized in human, numerous studies have reported the involvement of other components of the commensal microbiome in the increasing incidence of EBV-driven cancers. Additionally, recent advances have also defined the involvement of host–microbiota interactions in the regulation of the host immune system in EBV-driven cancers as well as other circumstances. The regulation of the host immune system by the commensal microbiome coinfects with EBV could be the implications for how we understand the persistence and reactivation of EBV, as well as the progression of EBV-associated cancers, since majority of the EBV persist as asymptomatic carrier. In this review, we attempt to summarize the possible mechanisms for EBV latency, reactivation, and EBV-driven tumorigenesis, as well as casting light on the role of other components of the microbiome in EBV infection and reactivation. Besides, whether novel microbiome targeting strategies could be applied for curing of EBV-driven cancer is discussed as well.

Epstein-Barr Virus+ B Cells in Breast Cancer Immune Response: A Case Report

EBV-specific T cells have been recently described to be involved in fatal encephalitis and myocarditis in cancer patients after immune checkpoint therapies. Here, we report the study of a human triple-negative breast cancer tumor (TNBC) and EBV-transformed B cells obtained from a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) that progressed into a lymphocytic neoplasm named xenograft-associated B-cell lymphoma (XABCL). T-cell receptor (TCR) high-throughput sequencing was performed to monitor the T-cell clonotypes present in the different samples. Forty-three T-cell clonotypes were found infiltrating the XABCL tissue after three passes in mice along 6 months. Eighteen of these (42%) were also found in the TNBC biopsy. TCR infiltrating the XABCL tissue showed a very restricted T-cell repertoire as compared with the biopsy-infiltrating T cells. Consequently, T cells derived from the TNBC biopsy were expanded in the presence of the B-cell line obtained from the XABCL (XABCL-LCL), after which the TCR repertoire obtained was again very restricted, i.e., only certain clonotypes were selected by the B cells. A number of these TCRs had previously been reported as sequences involved in infection, cancer, and/or autoimmunity. We then analyzed the immunopeptidome from the XABCL-LCL, to identify putative B-cell-associated peptides that might have been expanding these T cells. The HLA class I and class II-associated peptides from XABCL-LCL were then compared with published repertoires from LCL of different HLA typing. Proteins from the antigen processing and presentation pathway remained significantly enriched in the XABCL-LCL repertoire. Interestingly, some class II-presented peptides were derived from cancer-related proteins. These results suggest that bystander tumor-infiltrating EBV+ B cells acting as APC may be able to interact with tumor-infiltrating T cells and influence the TCR repertoire in the tumor site.

The differentiation state of the Schwann cell progenitor drives phenotypic variation between two contagious cancers

Contagious cancers are a rare pathogenic phenomenon in which cancer cells gain the ability to spread between genetically distinct hosts. Nine examples have been identified across marine bivalves, dogs and Tasmanian devils, but the Tasmanian devil is the only mammalian species known to have given rise to two distinct lineages of contagious cancer, termed Devil Facial Tumour 1 (DFT1) and 2 (DFT2). Remarkably, DFT1 and DFT2 arose independently from the same cell type, a Schwann cell, and while their ultra-structural features are highly similar they exhibit variation in their mutational signatures and infection dynamics. As such, DFT1 and DFT2 provide a unique framework for investigating how a common progenitor cell can give rise to distinct contagious cancers. Using a proteomics approach, we show that DFT1 and DFT2 are derived from Schwann cells in different differentiation states, with DFT2 carrying a molecular signature of a less well differentiated Schwann cell. Under inflammatory signals DFT1 and DFT2 have different gene expression profiles, most notably involving Schwann cell markers of differentiation, reflecting the influence of their distinct origins. Further, DFT2 cells express immune cell markers typically expressed during nerve repair, consistent with an ability to manipulate their extracellular environment, facilitating the cell’s ability to transmit between individuals. The emergence of two contagious cancers in the Tasmanian devil suggests that the inherent plasticity of Schwann cells confers a vulnerability to the formation of contagious cancers.

Cancer can be an infectious pathogen, with nine known cases, infecting bivalves, dogs and two independent tumours circulating in the endangered Tasmanian devil. These cancers, known as Devil Facial Tumour 1 (DFT1) and Devil Facial Tumour 2 (DFT2), spread through the wild population much like parasites, moving between genetically distinct hosts during social biting behaviours and persisting in the population. As DFT1 and DFT2 are independent contagious cancers that arose from the same cell type, a Schwann cell, they provide a unique model system for studying the emergence of phenotypic variation in cancers derived from a single progenitor cell. In this study, we have shown that these two remarkably similar tumours have emerged from Schwann cells in different differentiation states. The differentiation state of the progenitor has altered the characteristics of each tumour, resulting in different responses to external signals. This work demonstrates that the cellular origin of infection can direct the phenotype of a contagious cancer and how it responds to signals from the host environment. Further, the plasticity of Schwann cells may make these cells more prone to forming contagious cancers, raising the possibility that further parasitic cancers could emerge from this cell type.

Characteristics, management, and outcome of pediatric patients with post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease-A 20 years' experience from Austria

BACKGROUND

Management of pediatric post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) after hematopoietic stem cell (HSCT) and solid organ transplantation (SOT) is challenging.

AIM

This study of 34 PTLD patients up to 19-years old diagnosed in Austria from 2000 to 2018 aimed at assessing initial characteristics, therapy, response, and outcome as well as prognostic markers of this rare pediatric disease.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A retrospective data analysis was performed. Types of allografts were kidney (n = 12), liver (n = 7), heart (n = 5), hematopoietic stem cells (n = 4), lungs (n = 2), multi-visceral (n = 2), small intestine (n = 1), and vessels (n = 1). Eighteen/34 were classified as monomorphic PTLD, with DLBCL accounting for 15 cases. Polymorphic disease occurred in nine, and non-destructive lesions in six cases. One patient had a non-classifiable PTLD. Thirteen/34 patients are surviving event-free in first remission (non-destructive, n = 4/6; polymorphic, n = 4/9; monomorphic, n = 6/18). Fourteen/34 patients lacked complete response to first-line therapy, of whom seven died. Four/34 patients relapsed, of whom two died. In 3/34 patients, death occurred as a first event. The 5-year overall and event-free survival rates were 64% ± 9% and 35% ± 9% for the whole cohort. Among all parameters analyzed, only malignant disease as the indication for transplantation had a significantly poor influence on survival.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows PTLD still to be a major cause of mortality following SOT or HSCT in children. A continued understanding of the molecular biology of the disease shall allow to decrease treatment intensity for lower risk patients and to identify patients who may benefit from newer therapy approaches to improve outcome and decrease morbidity.

Clinical features of NK/T-cell EBV-associated LPD manifested as gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with normal immunity: a case report and literature review

Background

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)-associated NK/T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD) involving the gastrointestinal tract is rarely observed in individuals with normal immunity. The atypical clinical, colonoscopic manifestations often confuse clinicians, leading to misdiagnosis and delays in the treatment.

Case presentation

Herein, we reported on a single case of a patient with gastrointestinal symptoms. Several colonoscopies showed multiple irregular ulcerations, while biopsies showed colitis with infiltration of neutrophils or lymphocytes. After 2 months follow-up, the patient was diagnosed with the extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type, and was treated with thalidomide. Later on, a second check was performed on his first pathological sample. Immunohistochemistry revealed EBV associated NK/T-cell LPD.

Conclusions

Multiple, multiform, and segmental gastrointestinal ulcers should be an indication for EBV infection, regardless of the presence of fever, lymphadenopathy, and hepatosplenomegaly. If EBV-associated NK/T-cell LPD is considered, serum EBV-DNA should be measured, and the tissue obtained by biopsy should be carefully analyzed for a positive expression of the EBER marker.

Inborn Errors of Immunity and Cancer

Simple Summary

Inborn Errors of Immunity (IEI) are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by a defect in the function of at least one, and often more, components of the immune system. The overall risk for cancer in children with IEI ranges from 4 to 25%. Several factors, namely, age of the patient, viral infection status and IEI type can influence the development of different cancer types. Immunologists and oncologists should interact to monitor and promptly diagnose the potential development of cancer in known IEI patients, as well as an underlying IEI in newly diagnosed cancers with suggestive medical history or high rate of therapy-related toxicity. The creation of an international registry of IEI cases with detailed information on the occurrence of cancer is fundamental to optimizing the diagnostic process and to evaluating the outcomes of new therapeutic options, with the aim of improving prognosis and reducing comorbidities.

Abstract

Inborn Errors of Immunity (IEI) are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by a defect in the function of at least one, and often more, components of the immune system. The aim of this narrative review is to discuss the epidemiology, the pathogenesis and the correct management of tumours in patients with IEI. PubMed was used to search for all of the studies published over the last 20 years using the keywords: “inborn errors of immunity” or “primary immunodeficiency” and “cancer” or “tumour” or “malignancy”. Literature analysis showed that the overall risk for cancer in children with IEI ranges from 4 to 25%. Several factors, namely, age of the patient, viral infection status and IEI type can influence the development of different cancer types. The knowledge of a specific tumour risk in the presence of IEI highlights the importance of a synergistic effort by immunologists and oncologists in tracking down the potential development of cancer in known IEI patients, as well as an underlying IEI in patients with newly diagnosed cancers. In the current genomic era, the creation of an international registry of IEI cases integrated with malignancies occurrence information is fundamental to optimizing the diagnostic process and to evaluating the outcomes of new therapeutic options, with the hope to obtain a better prognosis for these patients.

EBV-miR-BART12 inhibits cell migration and proliferation by targeting Snail expression in EBV-associated gastric cancer

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) was the first oncovirus found to encode microRNAs. In EBV-associated gastric cancer (EBVaGC), EBV-encoded BamHI-A rightward transcript microRNAs (BARTs) are highly expressed. However, the role of BARTs in EBVaGC remains obscure. In this study, we found that EBV-miR-BART12 (miR-BART12) inhibits cell proliferation and migration. Zinc finger protein SNAI1 (Snail) is an important epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) inducer, and overexpression of Snail is closely associated with cancer metastasis. Here, we report that Snail expression in EBVaGC cells is lower than in EBV-negative gastric cancer (EBVnGC) cells. A dual luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-BART12 targets Snail directly by interacting with its 3'-UTR. A CHX chase assay revealed that miR-BART12 accelerates the degradation of Snail. Furthermore, we found that miR-BART12 can regulate the expression of EMT-related genes. Flow cytometry analysis showed that transfection with miR-BART12 induced G2/M phase arrest and promoted cell apoptosis. In summary, the results of our study have suggested a new mechanism by which BARTs can repress cell proliferation and migration in gastric cancer.

Epigenetic reprogramming sensitizes immunologically silent EBV+ lymphomas to virus-directed immunotherapy

Despite advances in T-cell immunotherapy against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-infected lymphomas that express the full EBV latency III program, a critical barrier has been that most EBV+ lymphomas express the latency I program, in which the single Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen (EBNA1) is produced. EBNA1 is poorly immunogenic, enabling tumors to evade immune responses. Using a high-throughput screen, we identified decitabine as a potent inducer of immunogenic EBV antigens, including LMP1, EBNA2, and EBNA3C. Induction occurs at low doses and persists after removal of decitabine. Decitabine treatment of latency I EBV+ Burkitt lymphoma (BL) sensitized cells to lysis by EBV-specific cytotoxic T cells (EBV-CTLs). In latency I BL xenografts, decitabine followed by EBV-CTLs results in T-cell homing to tumors and inhibition of tumor growth. Collectively, these results identify key epigenetic factors required for latency restriction and highlight a novel therapeutic approach to sensitize EBV+ lymphomas to immunotherapy.

A review on EBV encoded and EBV-induced host microRNAs expression profile in different lymphoma types

Previous literature supports the variations in microRNAs expression levels among lymphoma patients due to EBV infection. These alterations can be observed in both EBV-encoded-microRNAs and EBV-induced cellular microRNAs. Moreover, changes in the microRNA profile could be significant in disease progression. This study aimed to assess published literature to obtain a microRNA profile for both EBV-encoded microRNAs and EBV-induced cellular microRNAs among lymphoma patients. We searched common available electronic databases by using relevant keywords. The result demonstrated that EBV infection could alter the microRNA expression levels among lymphoma patients. In Burkitt lymphoma, hsa-miR197 and miR510 were most frequently assessed human micro RNAs. Also, miR-BART6-3P and miR-BART17-5P were the most frequent viral micro RNAs in Burkitt lymphoma. Other human important micro RNAs were hsa-miR155 (in Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL)), hsa-miR145 (in Nasal natural killer T cell lymphoma (NNKTCL)), miR-96, miR-128a, miR-128b, miR-129, and miR-205 (in Classic Hodgkin lymphoma (CHL)), miR-21, miR-142-3P, miR-126, miR-451 and miR-494-3P (in Nasal natural killer cell lymphoma (NNKCL)). Also, viral assessed micro RNAs were miR-BART1-5P (in DLBCL and NNKTCL), miR-BART-5 (in CHL), and EBV-miR-BART20-5P (in NNKCL). In conclusion, it could be suggested that EBV-encoded-microRNAs and EBV-induced cellular-microRNAs can be utilized as helpful factors for different types of lymphoma diagnoses or prognostic factors. Moreover, the mentioned microRNAs can also be promising therapeutic targets and can be used to modulate the oncogenes.

The Pivotal Role of Viruses in the Pathogeny of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Monoclonal (Type 1) IgG K Cryoglobulinemia and Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Diagnosis in the Course of a Human Metapneumovirus Infection

Background: Type-1 cryoglobulinemia (CG) is a rare disease associated with B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder. Some viral infections, such as Epstein–Barr Virus infections, are known to cause malignant lymphoproliferation, like certain B-cell lymphomas. However, their role in the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is still debatable. Here, we report a unique case of Type-1 CG associated to a CLL transformation diagnosed in the course of a human metapneumovirus (hMPV) infection. Case presentation: A 91-year-old man was initially hospitalized for delirium. In a context of febrile rhinorrhea, the diagnosis of hMPV infection was made by molecular assay (RT-PCR) on nasopharyngeal swab. Owing to hyperlymphocytosis that developed during the course of the infection and unexplained peripheral neuropathy, a type-1 IgG Kappa CG secondary to a CLL was diagnosed. The patient was not treated for the CLL because of Binet A stage classification and his poor physical condition. Conclusions: We report the unique observation in the literature of CLL transformation and hMPV infection. We provide a mini review on the pivotal role of viruses in CLL pathophysiology.

Lymphotropic Viruses: Chronic Inflammation and Induction of Cancers

Inflammation induced by transcription factors, including Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (STATs) and NF-κB, in response to microbial pathogenic infections and ligand dependent receptors stimulation are critical for controlling infections. However, uncontrolled inflammation induced by these transcription factors could lead to immune dysfunction, persistent infection, inflammatory related diseases and the development of cancers. Although the induction of innate immunity and inflammation in response to viral infection is important to control virus replication, its effects can be modulated by lymphotropic viruses including human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1), Κaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV), and Epstein Barr virus (EBV) during de novo infection as well as latent infection. These lymphotropic viruses persistently activate JAK-STAT and NF-κB pathways. Long-term STAT and NF-κB activation by these viruses leads to the induction of chronic inflammation, which can support the persistence of these viruses and promote virus-mediated cancers. Here, we review how HTLV-1, KSHV and EBV hijack the function of host cell surface molecules (CSMs), which are involved in the regulation of chronic inflammation, innate and adaptive immune responses, cell death and the restoration of tissue homeostasis. Thus, better understanding of CSMs-mediated chronic activation of STATs and NF-κB pathways in lymphotropic virus-infected cells may pave the way for therapeutic intervention in malignancies caused by lymphotropic viruses.

EBV-positive T/NK-associated lymphoproliferative disorders of childhood: A complete autopsy report

Introduction

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)-associated systemic T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder of childhood is a rare but severe manifestation of chronic EBV infection. Despite several case reports characterizing this rare hematological neoplasm, the literature describes extensive heterogeneity in the presentation of this disease.

Case presentation

Here we present a complete autopsy of a 16-year-old girl who ultimately succumbed to EBV-associated systemic T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder of childhood. Her clinical presentation demonstrated a non-specific pharyngitis with positive mono spot test, evolving into fulminant multi-organ failure, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, sepsis, and ultimately death.

Conclusions

Post-mortem findings included extensive hemorrhage, and infiltration of the liver, spleen, lymph nodes and bone marrow with neoplastic T-cells. There was extensive hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) within these organs, suggesting overlap between the EBV-associated systemic T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder of childhood and EBV-associated HLH. We hope these findings provide a more comprehensive overview of several possible manifestations of EBV-associated systemic T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder of childhood.

Global and regional incidence, mortality and disability-adjusted life-years for Epstein-Barr virus-attributable malignancies, 1990-2017

OBJECTIVE

To determine the global and regional burden of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-attributed malignancies.

DESIGN

An international comparative study based on the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study estimates.

SETTING

Global population by age, sex, region, demographic index and time.

METHODS AND OUTCOME MEASURES

The burden of EBV-attributed Burkitt lymphoma (BL), Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and gastric carcinoma (GC) was estimated in a two-step process. In the first step, the fraction of each malignancy attributable to EBV was estimated based on published studies; this was then applied to the GBD estimates to determine the global and regional incidence, mortality and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) for each malignancy by age, sex, geographical region and social demographic index (SDI) from 1990 to 2017.

RESULTS

The combined global incidence of BL, HL, NPC and GC in 2017 was 1.442 million cases, with over 973 000 deaths. An estimated 265 000 (18%) incident cases and 164 000 (17%) deaths were due to the EBV-attributed fraction. This is an increase of 36% in incidence and 19% in mortality from 1990. In 2017, EBV-attributed malignancies caused 4.604 million DALYs, of which 82% was due to NPC and GC alone. The incidence of both of these malignancies was higher in high and middle-high SDI regions and peaked in adults aged between 50 and 70 years. All four malignancies were more common in males and the highest burden was observed in East Asia.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides comprehensive estimates of the burden of EBV-attributed BL, HL, NPC and GC. The overall burden of EBV-related malignancies is likely to be higher since EBV is aetiologically linked to several other malignancies not included in this analysis. Increasing global population and life expectancy is expected to further raise this burden in the future. The urgency for developing an effective vaccine to prevent these malignancies cannot be overstated.

HIV-associated Burkitt lymphoma

Burkitt lymphoma is a rare and aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma with three classifications: endemic, sporadic, and immunodeficiency-related. High-intensity chemotherapeutic regimens have considerably improved overall survival for patients with Burkitt lymphoma. In this Review of HIV-associated Burkitt lymphoma, we summarise expert opinion and provide general recommendations for the treatment of Burkitt lymphoma in patients with HIV on the basis of retrospective and prospective studies, taking into consideration immune status, CD4 cell counts, the presence of systemic disease, and the risk of CNS involvement or relapse. We also discuss the role of rituximab and antiretroviral therapy. We highlight the reasons behind the possible different mechanisms of lymphomagenesis in HIV-associated Burkitt lymphoma and endemic Burkitt lymphoma, which indicate that HIV might have either a direct or indirect oncogenic role in Burkitt lymphoma. We discuss the possible mechanisms by which HIV and HIV proteins could directly contribute to lymphomagenesis. Identifying these mechanisms might lead to the development of therapies that have fewer toxic effects than high-intensity chemotherapeutic regimens.

Uncovering the Tumor Antigen Landscape: What to Know about the Discovery Process

According to the latest available data, cancer is the second leading cause of death, highlighting the need for novel cancer therapeutic approaches. In this context, immunotherapy is emerging as a reliable first-line treatment for many cancers, particularly metastatic melanoma. Indeed, cancer immunotherapy has attracted great interest following the recent clinical approval of antibodies targeting immune checkpoint molecules, such as PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA-4, that release the brakes of the immune system, thus reviving a field otherwise poorly explored. Cancer immunotherapy mainly relies on the generation and stimulation of cytotoxic CD8 T lymphocytes (CTLs) within the tumor microenvironment (TME), priming T cells and establishing efficient and durable anti-tumor immunity. Therefore, there is a clear need to define and identify immunogenic T cell epitopes to use in therapeutic cancer vaccines. Naturally presented antigens in the human leucocyte antigen-1 (HLA-I) complex on the tumor surface are the main protagonists in evocating a specific anti-tumor CD8+ T cell response. However, the methodologies for their identification have been a major bottleneck for their reliable characterization. Consequently, the field of antigen discovery has yet to improve. The current review is intended to define what are today known as tumor antigens, with a main focus on CTL antigenic peptides. We also review the techniques developed and employed to date for antigen discovery, exploring both the direct elution of HLA-I peptides and the in silico prediction of epitopes. Finally, the last part of the review analyses the future challenges and direction of the antigen discovery field.

A novel vaccine candidate based on chimeric virus-like particle displaying multiple conserved epitope peptides induced neutralizing antibodies against EBV infection

Rationale: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the causative pathogen for infectious mononucleosis and many kinds of malignancies including several lymphomas such as Hodgkin's lymphoma, Burkitt's lymphoma and NK/T cell lymphoma as well as carcinomas such as nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and EBV-associated gastric carcinoma (EBV-GC). However, to date no available prophylactic vaccine was launched to the market for clinical use.

Methods: To develop a novel vaccine candidate to prevent EBV infection and diseases, we designed chimeric virus-like particles (VLPs) based on the hepatitis B core antigen (HBc149). Various VLPs were engineered to present combinations of three peptides derived from the receptor binding domain of EBV gp350. All the chimeric virus-like particles were injected into Balb/C mice for immunogenicity evaluation. Neutralizing titer of mice sera were detected using an in vitro cell model.

Results: All chimeric HBc149 proteins self-assembled into VLPs with gp350 epitopes displayed on the surface of spherical particles. Interestingly, the different orders of the three epitopes in the chimeric proteins induced different immune responses in mice. Two constructs (149-3A and 149-3B) induced high serum titer against the receptor-binding domain of gp350. Most importantly, these two VLPs elicited neutralizing antibodies in immunized mice, which efficiently blocked EBV infection in cell culture. Competition analysis showed that sera from these mice contained antibodies to a major neutralizing epitope recognized by the strong neutralizing mAb 72A1.

Conclusion: Our data demonstrate that HBc149 chimeric VLPs provide a valuable platform to present EBV gp350 antigens and offer a robust basis for the development of peptide-based candidate vaccines against EBV.

Dasatinib exacerbates splenomegaly of mice inoculated with Epstein-Barr virus-infected lymphoblastoid cell lines

Latent infection of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with a poor prognosis in patients with B cell malignancy. We examined whether dasatinib, a multi kinase inhibitor, which is broadly used for chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia is effective on EBV-positive B cell malignancies, using lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) in vitro and in vivo. As a result, in vitro experiments showed that dasatinib induced cell death of the EBV-LCLs which was not accompanied with a lytic reactivation of EBVs. To evaluate the effectiveness in EBV latency type III represented by immunodeficiency lymphoma, LCL-inoculated immunodeficient NOD/shi-scid/Il2rg^nul (NOG) mice were treated with dasatinib. However, in vivo experiments revealed that dasatinib treatment exacerbated tumor cell infiltration into the spleen of LCL-inoculated NOG mice, whereas tumor size at the inoculated site was not affected by the treatment. These results suggest that dasatinib exacerbates the pathogenesis at least in some situations although the drug is effective in vitro. Hence, we should carefully examine a possibility of dasatinib repositioning for EBV⁺ B cell malignancies.

Deregulation of Chromosome Segregation and Cancer

The mitotic spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) is an intricate cell signaling system that ensures the high fidelity and timely segregation of chromosomes during cell division. Mistakes in this process can lead to the loss, gain, or rearrangement of the genetic material. Gross chromosomal aberrations are usually lethal but can cause birth and development defects as well as cancer. Despite advances in the identification of SAC protein components, important details of the interactions underpinning chromosome segregation regulation remain to be established. This review discusses the current understanding of the function, structure, mode of regulation, and dynamics of the assembly and disassembly of SAC subcomplexes, which ultimately safeguard the accurate transmission of a stable genome to descendants. We also discuss how diverse oncoviruses take control of human cell division by exploiting the SAC and the potential of this signaling circuitry as a pool of drug targets to develop effective cancer therapies.

Mechanistic Insights into Chemoresistance Mediated by Oncogenic Viruses in Lymphomas

Viral lymphomagenesis induced by infection with oncogenic viruses, such as Kaposi’s sarcoma associated herpesvirus (KSHV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV-1), represents a group of aggressive malignancies with a diverse range of pathological features. Combined chemotherapy remains the standard of care for these virus-associated lymphomas; however, frequent chemoresistance is a barrier to achieving successful long-term disease-free survival. There is increasing evidence that indicates virus-associated lymphomas display more resistance to cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents than that observed in solid tumors. Although the tumor microenvironment and genetic changes, such as key oncogene mutations, are closely related to chemoresistance, some studies demonstrate that the components of oncogenic viruses themselves play pivotal roles in the multidrug chemoresistance of lymphoma cells. In this review, we summarize recent advances in the understanding of the mechanisms through which oncogenic viruses mediate lymphoma cell chemoresistance, with a particular focus on KSHV and EBV, two major oncogenic viruses. We also discuss the current challenges to overcome these obstacles in the treatment of virus-associated lymphomas.

The burden of Burkitt lymphoma in Africa

BACKGROUND

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is a relatively common cancer of childhood in tropical Africa, although its precise incidence and continent-wide geographic distribution have not been previously systematically studied.

METHODS

Using the methods employed to produce national estimates of cancer incidence for the "Globocan" series of the International Agency for Research on Cancer, along with detailed information on cancer incidence by histological subtype from cancer registries in Africa, we estimate the numbers and rates of incidence by sex, age group, country and region of Africa.

RESULTS

We estimate that the number of new cases that occurred in 2018 to be about 3900, two thirds in males, and 81% in children aged 0-14. On a national basis, the geographic distribution of incidence rates among children in sub-Saharan Africa resembles that of the prevalence of infection with Falciparum malaria. An estimated 81% of cases are associated with infection with Epstein Barr virus (EBV).

CONCLUSIONS

BL comprises almost 50% of childhood of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in Africa, almost all of which are associated with EBV, with the geographic distribution - at least in sub Saharan Africa - mediated by infection with malaria.

Survival outcomes of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplants with EBV-positive or EBV-negative post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder, A CIBMTR study

BACKGROUND

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) are associated with significant morbidity and mortality following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (alloHCT). Although most PTLD is EBV-positive (EBV^pos ), EBV-negative (EBV^neg ) PTLD is reported, yet its incidence and clinical impact remain largely undefined. Furthermore, factors at the time of transplant impacting survival following PTLD are not well described.

METHODS

Between 2002 and 2014, 432 cases of PTLD following alloHCT were reported to the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR). After exclusions, 267 cases (EBV^pos  = 222, 83%; EBV^neg  = 45, 17%) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Two hundred and eight patients (78%) received in vivo T-cell depletion (TCD) with either anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG) or alemtuzumab. Incidence of PTLD was highest using umbilical cord donors (UCB, 1.60%) and lowest using matched related donors (MRD, 0.40%). Clinical features and histology did not significantly differ among EBV^pos or EBV^neg PTLD cases except that absolute lymphocyte count recovery was slower, and CMV reactivation was later in EBV^neg PTLD [EBV^pos 32 (5-95) days versus EBV^neg 47 (10-70) days, P = .016]. There was no impact on survival by EBV status in multivariable analysis [EBV^neg RR 1.42, 95% CI 0.94-2.15, P = .097].

CONCLUSIONS

There is no difference in survival outcomes for patients with EBV^pos or EBV^neg PTLD occurring following alloHCT and 1-year survival is poor. Features of conditioning and use of serotherapy remain important.

EBV-Associated Lymphoproliferative Disorders: Update in Classification

Although about 90% of the world's population is infected by EBV only a small subset of the related infections result in neoplastic transformation. EBV is a versatile oncogenic agent involved in a multitude of hematopoietic, epithelial, and mesenchymal neoplasms, but the precise role of EBV in the pathogenesis of many of the associated lymphoid/histiocytic proliferations remains hypothetical or not completely understood. Additional studies and use of evolving technologies such as high-throughput next-generation sequencing may help address this knowledge gap and may lead to enhanced diagnostic assessment and the development of potential therapeutic interventions.

An EBV+ lymphoepithelioma-like cholangiocarcinoma in a young woman with chronic hepatitis B

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is implicated in the tumorigenesis of a variety of malignancies, including Burkitt's lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). EBV+ lymphoepithelioma-like cholangiocarcinoma (LELCC) is a rare type of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma with a distinct pathology and poorly understood treatment options. Morphologically, this neoplasm resembles undifferentiated NPC, a commonly EBV+ tumour with a prominent lymphoid infiltrate. Almost all of the current literature regarding LELCC describes early stage tumours that are treated surgically and achieve good outcomes. In contrast, this report documents a late stage LELCC treated unsuccessfully with systemic chemotherapy.

Modelling the dynamics of EBV transmission to inform a vaccine target product profile and future vaccination strategy

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of the most common human viruses and the cause of pathologies such as infectious mononucleosis (IM) and certain cancers. No vaccine against EBV infection currently exists, but such vaccines are in development. Knowledge of how EBV is transmitted at the population level is critical to the development of target product profiles (TPPs) for such vaccines and future vaccination strategies. We present the first mathematical model of EBV transmission, parameterised using data from England, and use it to compare hypothetical prophylactic vaccines with different characteristics and the impact of vaccinating different age groups. We found that vaccine duration had more impact than vaccine efficacy on modelled EBV and IM prevalence. The age group vaccinated also had an important effect: vaccinating at a younger age led to a greater reduction in seroprevalence but an increase in IM cases associated with delayed infection. Vaccination had impact on cancer incidence only in the long run, because in England most EBV-related cancers arise in later life. Durability of protection should be a key factor to prioritise in EBV vaccine development and included in vaccine TPPs. These findings are timely and important for vaccine developers and policy-makers alike.

A Case of Methotrexate-Associated Lymphoproliferative Disorder (Lymphomatoid Granulomatosis) of the Skin

Iatrogenic lymphoproliferative disorder (LPD) can develop in patients treated with immunosuppressive drugs for autoimmune or other inflammatory diseases. Here, we report a case of lymphomatoid granulomatosis of the skin that occurred as a methotrexate (MTX)-associated LPD. We also review the relevant literature. A 73-year-old woman presented to our department with an approximately 10-year history of MTX therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. Three months earlier, she noticed a small nodule in her right upper arm. It gradually enlarged, and the center began to decay. Grossly, the lesion was 40 × 40 mm in size with ulceration, and the surrounding skin presented dark red erythema. A biopsy specimen was taken for definitive diagnosis. Histologically, infiltrating growth of medium-to-large atypical lymphocytes was observed underneath the ulceration and was accompanied by small reactive lymphocytes. The atypical lymphocytes demonstrated a tendency to infiltrate the vessels, which showed an angiocentric pattern. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the atypical lymphoid cells were positive for CD79a, CD20, and CD30. In addition, in situ hybridization for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) revealed expression of EBV-encoded small RNAs. The patient was diagnosed with MTX-associated LPD (lymphomatoid granulomatosis), owing to her history of MTX treatment, the expression of the atypical lymphocytes for B-cell markers and EBV-encoded small RNA, and the angiocentric infiltrating pattern. The lesion reportedly disappeared after withdrawal of MTX.

Epstein Barr Virus Associated B-Cell Lymphomas and Iatrogenic Lymphoproliferative Disorders

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous herpesvirus, affecting up to 90% of the population. EBV was first identified as an oncogenic virus in a Burkitt lymphoma cell line, though subsequently has been found to drive a variety of malignancies, including diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and other lymphoma subtypes. EBV has a tropism for B-lymphocytes and has the unique ability to exist in a latent state, evading the host immune response. In cases of impaired cell mediated immunity, as in patients with advanced age or iatrogenic immune suppression, the virus is able to proliferate in an unregulated fashion, expressing viral antigens that predispose to transformation. EBV-positive DLBCL not otherwise specified, which has been included as a revised provisional entity in the 2016 WHO classification of lymphoid malignancies, is thought to commonly occur in older patients with immunosenescence. Similarly, it is well-established that iatrogenic immune suppression, occurring in both transplant and non-transplant settings, can predispose to EBV-driven lymphoproliferative disorders. EBV-positive lymphoproliferative disorders are heterogeneous, with variable clinical features and prognoses depending on the context in which they arise. While DLBCL is the most common subtype, other histologic variants, including Burkitt lymphoma, NK/T-cell lymphoma, and Hodgkin lymphoma can occur. Research aimed at understanding the underlying biology and disease prevention strategies in EBV-associated lymphoproliferative diseases are ongoing. Additionally, personalized treatment approaches, such as immunotherapy and adoptive T-cell therapies, have yielded encouraging results, though randomized trials are needed to further define optimal management.

Viral-Targeted Strategies Against EBV-Associated Lymphoproliferative Diseases

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is strongly associated with a spectrum of EBV-associated lymphoproliferative diseases (EBV-LPDs) ranging from post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder, B cell lymphomas (e.g., endemic Burkitt lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and diffuse large B cell lymphoma) to NK or T cell lymphoma (e.g., nasal NK/T-cell lymphoma). The virus expresses a number of latent viral proteins which are able to manipulate cell cycle and cell death processes to promote survival of the tumor cells. Several FDA-approved drugs or novel compounds have been shown to induce killing of some of the EBV-LPDs by inhibiting the function of latent viral proteins or activating the viral lytic cycle from latency. Here, we aim to provide an overview on the mechanisms by which EBV employs to drive the pathogenesis of various EBV-LPDs and to maintain the survival of the tumor cells followed by a discussion on the development of viral-targeted strategies based on the understanding of the patho-mechanisms.

Human oncoviruses: Mucocutaneous manifestations, pathogenesis, therapeutics, and prevention: Hepatitis viruses, human T-cell leukemia viruses, herpesviruses, and Epstein-Barr virus

In 1964, the first human oncovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, was identified in Burkitt lymphoma cells. Since then, 6 other human oncoviruses have been identified: human papillomavirus, Merkel cell polyomavirus, hepatitis B and C viruses, human T-cell lymphotropic virus-1, and human herpesvirus-8. These viruses are causally linked to 12% of all cancers, many of which have mucocutaneous manifestations. In addition, oncoviruses are associated with multiple benign mucocutaneous diseases. Research regarding the pathogenic mechanisms of oncoviruses and virus-specific treatment and prevention is rapidly evolving. Preventative vaccines for human papillomavirus and hepatitis B virus are already available. This review discusses the mucocutaneous manifestations, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oncovirus-related diseases. The first article in this continuing medical education series focuses on diseases associated with human papillomavirus and Merkel cell polyomavirus, while the second article in the series focuses on diseases associated with hepatitis B and C viruses, human T-cell lymphotropic virus-1, human herpesvirus-8, and Epstein-Barr virus.

Natural killer/T-cell lymphoma with concomitant syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion: A case report and review of literature

We report a case of natural killer (NK)/T-cell lymphoma with concomitant syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). The patient was a 64-year-old woman with a history of nasopharyngeal carcinoma of over 30 years. She was admitted with a chief complaint of intermittent fever for 2 mo. Palpation after admission indicated a swollen lymph node below the left jaw. Multiple imaging examinations on admission indicated multiple enlarged lymph nodes throughout the body. We performed a left submandibular lymph node biopsy, and the results revealed NK/T-cell lymphoma. A biochemical examination indicated Epstein-Barr virus positivity. At the same time, the patient developed hyponatremia. Based on her laboratory examination and clinical manifestation, decreased plasma osmolality, urine osmolality greater than plasma osmolality, lack of skin swelling, normal blood pressure, normal renal function, no adrenal function detected on serology, and no abnormalities in imaging examination of the adrenal glands, the likelihood of SIADH in the patient was high. After fluid restriction and administration of sodium chloride, the patient’s blood sodium level gradually increased. Subsequently, the immune function of the patient declined, there were severe symptoms of infection, and she died of respiratory failure. NK/T-cell lymphoma associated with SIADH has not, to our knowledge, been previously reported in PubMed. This case emphasizes the importance of monitoring serum ion levels, especially serum sodium, in patients with NK/T-cell lymphoma.

Contribution of the KSHV and EBV lytic cycles to tumourigenesis

Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) and Epstein Barr virus (EBV) are the causative agents of several malignancies. Like all herpesviruses, KSHV and EBV undergo distinct latent and lytic replication programmes. The transition between these states allows the establishment of a lifelong persistent infection, dissemination to sites of disease and the spread to new hosts. Latency-associated viral proteins have been well characterised in transformation and tumourigenesis pathways; however, a number of studies have shown that abrogation of KSHV and EBV lytic gene expression impairs the oncogenesis of several cancers. Furthermore, several lytically expressed proteins have been functionally tethered to the angioproliferative and anti-apoptotic phenotypes of virus-infected cells. As a result, the investigation and therapeutic targeting of KSHV and EBV lytic cycles may be essential for the treatment of their associated malignancies.

Chemokine Subversion by Human Herpesviruses

Viruses use diverse molecular mechanisms to exploit and evade the immune response. Herpesviruses, in particular, encode functional chemokine and chemokine receptor homologs pirated from the host, as well as secreted chemokine-binding proteins with unique structures. Multiple functions have been described for herpesvirus chemokine components, including attraction of target cells, blockade of leukocyte migration, and modulation of gene expression and cell entry by the virus. Here we review current concepts about how human herpesvirus chemokines, chemokine receptors, and chemokine-binding proteins may be used to shape a proviral state in the host.

Neurologic Complications of Lymphoma, Leukemia, and Paraproteinemias

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews the spectrum of neurologic complications associated with lymphoma, leukemia, and paraproteinemic disorders. While leptomeningeal metastasis is the most common complication of lymphoma and leukemia and peripheral neuropathy is the most common complication of paraproteinemic disorders, clinicians need to be familiar with the diverse neurologic complications of these disorders.

RECENT FINDINGS

Lymphomatous nervous system involvement can be difficult to diagnose, especially when it is the presenting symptom. CSF cytology and flow cytometry, as well as the imaging pattern, assist in diagnosis. Neurologic complications are less common in Hodgkin lymphoma; however, some unique paraneoplastic syndromes are associated with Hodgkin lymphoma, including primary central nervous system angiitis, limbic encephalitis, and cerebellar degeneration. Recent reports suggest that anti-metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5) antibodies are associated with limbic encephalitis and that anti-Tr antibodies are associated with cerebellar degeneration in Hodgkin lymphoma. Polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal plasma cell disorder, and skin changes (POEMS) syndrome is often misdiagnosed as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP). A lambda protein, thrombocytosis, and elevated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) can all be helpful clues in diagnosis. Early recognition is important, as the neuropathy responds to radiation therapy or chemotherapy.

SUMMARY

Neurologic involvement can occur throughout the disease course in lymphoma and leukemia, including at presentation, with systemic progression, and at relapse. In paraproteinemias, the peripheral neuropathy phenotype, monoclonal protein type, and associated autonomic and systemic features aid in identification of an underlying plasma cell disorder.

Epstein-Barr Virus Epidemiology, Serology, and Genetic Variability of LMP-1 Oncogene Among Healthy Population: An Update

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a DNA lymphotropic herpesvirus and the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis. EBV is highly prevalent since it affects more than 90% of individuals worldwide and has been linked to several malignancies including PTLDs, which are one of the most common malignancies following transplantation. Among all the EBV genes, most of the recent investigations focused on studying the LMP-1 oncogene because of its high degree of polymorphism and association with tumorigenic activity. There are two main EBV genotypes, Type 1 and 2, distinguished by the differences in the EBNA-2 gene. Further sub genotyping can be characterized by analyzing the LMP-1 gene variation. The virus primarily transmits through oral secretions and persists as a latent infection in human B-cells. However, it can be transmitted through organ transplantations and blood transfusions. In addition, symptoms of EBV infection are not distinguishable from other viral infections, and therefore, it remains questionable whether there is a need to screen for EBV prior to blood transfusion. Although the process of leukoreduction decreases the viral copies present in the leukocytes, it does not eliminate the risk of EBV transmission through blood products. Here, we provide a review of the EBV epidemiology and the genetic variability of the oncogene LMP-1. Then, we underscore the findings of recent EBV seroprevalence and viremia studies among blood donors as a highly prevalent transfusion transmissible oncovirus.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated lymphoid proliferations, a 2018 update

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been linked to many human neoplasms including hematopoietic, epithelial, and mesenchymal tumors. Since our original review of EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders in 2007, many advances and developments have been reported. In this review, we will examine the recent advances in EBV-associated lymphoid/histiocytic proliferations, dividing them into reactive, B cell, T/NK cell, immunodeficiency-related, and histiocytic/dendritic cell proliferations.