Extracavitary Primary Effusion Lymphoma Research Articles

An update on EBV-related cutaneous lymphoproliferative disorders: a systematic review.

Epstein Barr virus (EBV) positive B lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) with cutaneous involvement include a series of rare entities that go from indolent processes to aggressive lymphomas. Since the latest WHO-EORTC classification of cutaneous lymphomas in 2018, significant changes have been included in the new classifications of hematological malignancies. B-cell EBV+ LPD mainly affect immunocompromised patients while T-cell EBV+ LPD are more prevalent in specific geographic regions such as Asia, Central America, and South America. This systematic review summarizes the main clinical, histological, immunophenotypic and molecular characteristics of B- and T-cell EBV+ LPD that may compromise the skin at diagnosis. B-cell EBV+ LPD include primary cutaneous lymphomas such as EBV-MCU, as well as cutaneous systemic lymphomas that may present such as lymphomatoid granulomatosis (LG), EBV+ diffuse large B cell lymphoma, NOS, plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL), and extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma (EC-PEL). EBV+, EBV-positive polymorphic B cell LPD, or post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD). Regarding T-cell EBV+ LPD, most of these entities are categorized within T/NK-cell lymphoproliferative processes and lymphomas of childhood, including extranodal T/NK lymphoma, and even more exceptional forms such as EBV-positive T-cell centrofollicular lymphoma and intravascular T/NK-cell lymphoma. Diagnosis is based on integrating the clinical, histological, immunohistochemical, and genetic criteria discussed throughout this article. Management is multidisciplinary, posing a challenge for dermatologists and hematologists involved in the management of these patients. Having scientific evidence available in this field is of paramount importance because overtreatment must be carefully avoided.

Plasmablastic lymphoma: 2024 update on diagnosis, risk stratification, and management.

Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is a rare CD20-negative aggressive lymphoma with a poor prognosis under standard treatment options. Though PBL is associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection and other immunosuppressed states, it can also affect immunocompetent individuals. The diagnosis requires a high clinical suspicion and pathological confirmation. EBER expression and MYC gene rearrangements are frequently detected. The differential diagnosis includes EBV+ diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma, ALK+ DLBCL, and HHV8+ large B-cell lymphoma, among others. Age ≥60 years, advanced clinical stage, and high intermediate and high International Prognostic Index scores are associated with worse survival. Combination chemotherapy regimens, such as EPOCH, are recommended. The addition of bortezomib, lenalidomide, or daratumumab might improve outcomes. Including PBL patients and their participation in prospective clinical trials is warranted.

Primary Effusion Lymphoma (PEL) and Primary Effusion-like Lymphoma (PEL-LL): A Comparative Study of Clinicopathologic Features and Outcomes

Background: While PEL is a well-established distinct WHO entity, PEL-LL is poorly defined and has been characterized differently by different researchers. Over the years, it encompassed PEL that expressed mature B-cell markers, extra-cavitary solid PEL, and recently the HHV8-unrelated PEL-like lymphomas. For this study, we defined PEL-LL as PEL-like lymphomas expressing mature B-cell phenotype. We conducted this study to compare the clinicopathological characteristics of PEL and PEL-LL and their impact on clinical outcomes. Methods: To study the clinicopathologic characteristics, therapeutic interventions, overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and prognostic factors, we compiled a pooled database of 381 cases of PEL and PEL-LL. Chi-square and t-test were used to test the statistical significance of differences in parameters. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were constructed. Cox proportional hazards model and Log-rank tests were used to assess the influence of clinicopathologic factors on OS and DFS. Results: A total of 381 (268 PEL, 113 PEL-LL) patients were identified. PEL and PEL-LL median ages were 51 and 74 (p < 0.0001), respectively. There was a male preponderance with M:F of 7 with PEL versus 2 with PEL-LL (p < 0.0001). The median OS was 6 months for PEL and 16 months for PEL-LL (p = 0.006). Compared to the thoracic cavity, involvement of the peritoneal cavity was associated with worse OS in both PEL and PEL-LL. Still, PEL-LL maintained better outcomes for each risk group (24 and 7 vs. 11 and 4 months, p < 0.0001). In the absence of HIV infection, PEL-LL has a superior OS to PEL (19 vs. 6 months, p = 0.002). However, HIV infection erases this survival advantage (6 vs. 6.5 months). In both entities, active treatment was associated with better OS (19 vs. 10 and 9 vs. 2 months, p < 0.0001). However, the untreated PEL-LL arm did as well as the treated PEL arm. Achieving CR as the best response to therapy in both PEL-LL and PEL was associated with superior OS (108 vs. 7 and 70 vs. 2 months, p < 0.0001). While dose-intense chemotherapy regimens did not impact OS in PEL-LL, they were associated with better OS in PEL (22 vs. 18 and 15 vs. 8 months, p = 0.03). Conclusions: This is the first study to compare PEL and PEL-LL expressing mature B-cell phenotype. It identifies key factors that impact OS that vary between the two entities. It also supports that PEL and PEL-LL represent two different disease entities regardless of their similar presentation.

Treatment Outcomes and Prognostic Factors in 40 Patients with Primary Effusion Lymphoma

Background: Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) is a rare, B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) caused by Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV), also known as human herpesvirus 8, that is strongly associated with HIV infection. PEL often presents as malignant body cavity effusions but can also present as extracavitary masses. Patients may also have concurrent Kaposi sarcoma (KS) or multicentric Castleman disease (MCD). 80% of PEL is also positive for EBV, and in a cohort of 20 patients we previously showed EBV + PEL had improved overall survival (OS) (Lurain et al. Blood 2019). PEL prognosis is poor compared to other HIV-associated NHL with median survival of 6-10 months. While patients are often treated with chemotherapy regimens used in other NHL, the optimal front-line and subsequent-line treatments are unknown. In this largest cohort of patients with PEL in the United States, we evaluated survival, prognostic markers, and second-line treatments in relapsed/refractory disease.Methods: We analyzed clinical records of all patients with PEL treated in the HIV and AIDS Malignancy Branch at the National Cancer Institute from 2000-2021. We collected demographics, disease characteristics, concurrent KS and MCD, EBV status of tumor by EBER staining, and laboratory data at diagnosis as well as at progression and subsequent lines of therapy. We calculated overall survival (OS) of all patients and progression-free survival (PFS) in those who received front-line EPOCH by Kaplan-Meier method. The survival of extracavitary vs. cavitary PEL was compared using an exact log-rank test. A univariate Cox proportional hazard model was performed to determine prognostic variables associated with OS.Results: We identified 40 patients with PEL: 38 cisgender men, 2 cisgender women; 18 non-Hispanic Black, 6 Hispanic, 16 non-Hispanic White; median age 41 years. At diagnosis of PEL, 29 patients had concurrent KS, and 7 had concurrent MCD. Eight patients had only extracavitary disease, and 5 had leptomeningeal disease. All but 1 had HIV, and all with HIV received antiretroviral therapy. At diagnosis, median HIV viral load (VL) was 50 (IQR: 27-8323) copies/mL, median CD4 + cell count was 100 (IQR:44-395) cells/µL, and median KSHV VL was 4147 copies/10 6 cells (IQR:178-68,526). One patient died prior to receiving treatment. Of the 39 patients who received front-line treatment, 38 received combination chemotherapy (EPOCH [36], CHOP [1], ICE [1]) with rituximab added in 34 patients to treat concurrent MCD or deplete the KSHV-infected B cell reservoir. One patient received pembrolizumab as up-front therapy due to concurrent progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy. Twenty-three (57%) had complete remission (CR) by Lugano criteria. Median PFS after front-line EPOCH was 16.4 months (Figure 1a), and median OS in all patients was 35.6 months (Figure 1b), with 5-year OS of 44%. Median OS for patients with extracavitary disease was significantly higher than in patients with cavitary disease (p=0.023, Figure 1c). EBER-positive tumors (HR=0.21, p=0.005) were associated with improved survival, while concurrent KS, MCD, leptomeningeal disease, and baseline CD4 and KSHV VL were not associated with OS outcomes.Eleven patients with relapsed/refractory disease received second-line therapy, including combination chemotherapy (3); brentuximab (3); pembrolizumab (1); pembrolizumab and pomalidomide (1); interferon-alpha, ganciclovir, and bevacizumab (1); bortezomib, ganciclovir, and zidovudine (1); and radiation to pelvic lymph nodes (1). Five of these patients received subsequent treatment after disease progression, including 2 patients with leptomeningeal PEL, 1 who received daratumumab and 1 who received pomalidomide and pembrolizumab with ongoing CRs at 12 months and 33 months, respectively.Conclusion: Patients with PEL had a median OS of 35.6 months, which is improved from previous reports. Patients with extracavitary PEL appear to have improved OS, and we confirmed our prior study noting EBER-positive PEL is a positive prognostic marker. Promising chemotherapy-sparing treatment regimens in relapsed/refractory PEL, include pembrolizumab, pomalidomide, and daratumumab. [Display omitted] DisclosuresUldrick: Regeneron: Current Employment; Roche: Research Funding; Merck: Other: Receives study drug; Celgene: Research Funding. Yarchoan: Celgene: Research Funding; Merck: Other: Clinical Trial Support; EMD-Serano: Other: Clinical Trial Support; Eli Lilly: Other: Clinical Trial Support; CTI BioPharma: Other: Clinical Trial Support; Janssen Pharmaceuticals: Other: Clinical Trial Support; U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services: Patents & Royalties. Lurain: EMD-Serrono: Research Funding; BMS-Celgene: Research Funding; CTI Biopharma: Research Funding; Merck: Research Funding; Janssen: Research Funding.

EBV-Driven Lymphoproliferative Disorders and Lymphomas of the Gastrointestinal Tract: A Spectrum of Entities with a Common Denominator (Part 2).

Simple SummaryEpstein–Barr virus (EBV)-associated lymphoproliferative disorders have been garnering attention in recent years. EBV infects people primarily in their first years of life. The viral genome is maintained in a latent phase within the host cells, usually B-lymphocytes. The immunosuppression of different origins alters homeostasis between the virus and the host, enabling EBV-linked lymphoproliferative disorders to appear. Entities with different biological behaviors often share some morphological and phenotypic features, making the diagnosis complicated. Nodal and extra-nodal sites, including the gastrointestinal tract may be involved. This review, divided into three parts, aims to summarize the available clinical, pathological, molecular and therapeutic data on EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders involving the gastrointestinal tract. In this part of the review, we discuss plasmablastic lymphoma, extra-cavitary primary effusion lymphoma and Burkitt lymphoma.Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a common pathogen infecting people primarily early in life. The virus has the ability to persist throughout a person’s life, usually in B lymphocytes. Conditions of immunodeficiency as well as the introduction of immunosuppressive therapies and the advent of transplant technologies has brought immunodeficiency-associated lymphoproliferative disorders into view, which are often driven by EBV. The group of EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders includes different entities, with distinct biological features, ranging from indolent disorders, which may even spontaneously regress, to aggressive lymphomas requiring prompt and adequate treatment. These disorders are often diagnostically challenging due to their overlapping morphology and immunophenotype. Both nodal and extra-nodal sites, including the gastrointestinal tract, may be involved. This review, divided in three parts, summarizes the clinical, pathological, molecular features and treatment strategies of EBV-related lymphoproliferative disorders occurring in the gastrointestinal tract and critically analyzes the major issues in the differential diagnosis. In this part of the review, we discuss plasmablastic lymphoma, extra-cavitary primary effusion lymphoma and Burkitt lymphoma.

A CASE OF EXTRACAVITARY PRIMARY EFFUSION LYMPHOMA

SESSION TITLE: Medical Student/Resident Disorders of the Mediastinum Posters SESSION TYPE: Med Student/Res Case Rep Postr PRESENTED ON: October 18-21, 2020 INTRODUCTION: Among HIV related malignancies, primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) is uncommon and represents 1-4% of HIV-associated lymphomas.1 PEL is associated with HHV-8 & EBV, and is monotypic B-cell lymphoma. Despite similar demographic and epidemiologic risk factors, PEL has a distinct genetic and histopathologic profile compared to other HIV-associated non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas (NHL). The classic presentation of PEL is characterized by liquid accumulation of malignant cells associated with serosal surfaces without a localized mass or solid tissue infiltration.1 However, about 1/3 of PEL are extracavitary, and form solid tumors with or without effusions. These mass lesions are often found in the GI tract, spleen, or lymph nodes.2 This can pose a diagnostic challenge, as extracavitary PEL can be mistaken for more common HIV associated lymphomas such as Burkitt’s or DLBCL. CASE PRESENTATION: 41-year-old man presented to clinic with a history of well-controlled HIV on HART therapy, and a complex oncologic history including high grade NHL (likely Burkitt’s lymphoma) diagnosed 17 years prior. His initial course was complicated by CNS involvement, treated with 6 cycles of R-EPOCH, radiation and intra-thecal chemotherapy. He relapsed and underwent autologous stem cell transplant in 2005 with complete remission. Surveillance PET/CT in 2019 demonstrated a 1-cm right-sided lower paratracheal lymph node with mild FDG avidity. The patient endorsed some night sweats but was otherwise asymptomatic. EBUS TBNA confirmed extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma. Immunostains demonstrated lymphoma cells positive for HHV and EBV. Bone marrow biopsy was negative. Notably, this extracavitary PEL was thought to be a second primary malignancy, and not relapse of his prior NHL DISCUSSION: Although relapse of this patient’s prior NHL would be the most expected diagnosis, this case demonstrates two distinct HIV-associated primary lymphomas. Bronchoscopic sampling was critical for pathologic differentiation of these two conditions. The patient’s age, gender, HIV status, and immunohistochemical profile are in line with prior reports,. However, this case is especially unique in that other cases have typically occurred in patients more immunosuppressed than ours. In one of the largest case studies performed, the median CD4 count was 200 and 65% had a history of an AIDS defining condition.2 Other complications of HHV-8 such as Kaposi’s Sarcoma or Multicenter Castleman’s Disease are also common in patients with PEL.2 However prior lymphomas such as Burkitt’s or DLBCL have not been reported as preceding PEL. CONCLUSIONS: This case highlights the spectrum of NHL that can occur in HIV patients, and the importance of appropriate tissue acquisition for clarifying the diagnosis which may be accomplished bronchoscopically. Reference #1: Chen, Y.-B., Rahemtullah, A. and Hochberg, E. (2007), Primary Effusion Lymphoma. The Oncol, 12: 569-576. doi:10.1634/theoncologist.12-5-569 Reference #2: Guillet, S., Gérard, L., Meignin, V., Agbalika, F., Cuccini, W., Denis, B., Katlama, C., Galicier, L. and Oksenhendler, E. (2016), Classic and extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma in 51 HIV-infected patients from a single institution. Am. J. Hematol., 91: 233-237. doi:10.1002/ajh.24251 Reference #3: Chadburn A, Hyjek E, Mathew S, et al. KSHV-positive solid lymphomas represent an extra-cavitary variant of primary effusion lymphoma. Am J Surg Pathol 2004;28:1401–1416. DISCLOSURES: Speaker/Speaker's Bureau relationship with Boehringer-Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Please note: $5001 - $20000 Added 04/07/2020 by Jaime Betancourt, source=Web Response, value=Honoraria Speaker/Speaker's Bureau relationship with Vapotherm, Inc Please note: $5001 - $20000 Added 04/07/2020 by Jaime Betancourt, source=Web Response, value=Honoraria No relevant relationships by Gwenyth Day, source=Web Response No relevant relationships by Kevin Eng, source=Web Response No relevant relationships by Katy Lawson, source=Web Response

WHERE ARE THE EFFUSIONS?

SESSION TITLE: Fellows Pulmonary Manifestations of Systemic Disease Posters SESSION TYPE: Fellow Case Report Posters PRESENTED ON: October 18-21, 2020 INTRODUCTION: Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) is a rare and aggressive subset of B-cell lymphoma that is commonly associated with immune deficiencies such as HIV/AIDS and organ transplant. It commonly manifests as a serous effusion in either pleural, pericardial or peritoneal spaces, and is associated with human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8) or Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). One study showed that about one third of patients with the diagnosis of PEL did not have effusions; but were diagnosed by pathology of solid tumors. CASE PRESENTATION: A 58-year-old man with a multi-decade history of HIV infection was referred to the Emergency Department for anemia and low CD4 T cell count with elevated HIV viral load. He had a long history of HIV infection. Other medical problems include Kaposi sarcoma, hypertension, and spinal osteoarthritis. His physical exam was notable for pre-auricular and inguinal lymphadenopathy. Initial laboratory evaluation included anemia, leukocytosis with left shift, thrombocytopenia, elevated serum protein, low bicarbonate and elevated lactate. He was given fluid resuscitation, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and vasopressor support. Cerebrospinal fluid studies showed high total protein at 72, 88% lymphocytes. Continued evaluation of his lymphadenopathy, anemia and thrombocytopenia included detection of EBV and HHV-8. Excisional biopsy of left cervical lymph node showed clusters and sheets of large atypical cells with plasmablastic morphology admixed with small mature lymphocytes and plasma cells. The suspected diagnosis was primary effusion lymphoma without lymphomatous effusions. His course was complicated by respiratory insufficiency requiring non invasive ventilation in the setting of new bilateral ground glass opacities. He was treated for pneumonia with clinical improvement. He became altered on the medical floor, and a guardian was appointed for his medical decision making. In light of HIV-associated lymphoma with unclear benefit to aggressive chemotherapy, his guardian opted for comfort care and he was discharged to home hospice. DISCUSSION: We present a case of PEL presenting in a patient with long-standing HIV infection and history of Kaposi sarcoma. Despite the name, not all cases have lymphomatous effusions on presentation. PEL is uncommon, and available information is based on case series. The treatment of PEL involves multi-drug chemotherapy, including use of CHOP (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine and prednisolone) and methotrexate. One case series of 28 patients treated for PEL with CHOP had median overall survival of 6.2 months . Another case series of 51 patients treated for PEL using CHOP-like regimen and the addition of methotrexate showed median overall survival 10.2 months . CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of PEL is low; but should be considered in in patients with long standing HIV infection and Kaposi sarcoma. Reference #1: Guillet, S., Gérard, L., Meignin, V., Agbalika, F., Cuccini, W., Denis, B., Katlama, C., Galicier, L. and Oksenhendler, E. (2016), Classic and extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma in 51 HIV-infected patients from a single institution. Am. J. Hematol., 91: 233-237. doi:10.1002/ajh.24251 Reference #2: Kazuyuki Shimada, Fumihiko Hayakawa, Hitoshi Kiyoi; Biology and management of primary effusion lymphoma. Blood 2018; 132 (18): 1879–1888. doi: https://doi.org/10.1182/blood-2018-03-791426 Reference #3: Emmanuelle Boulanger, Laurence Gérard, Jean Gabarre, Jean-Michel Molina, Christophe Rapp, Jean-François Abino, Jacques Cadranel, Sylvie Chevret, and Eric Oksenhendler Prognostic Factors and Outcome of Human Herpesvirus 8–Associated Primary Effusion Lymphoma in Patients With AIDS (2005) Journal of Clinical Oncology 23:19, 4372-4380 DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Saud Alrawaf, source=Web Response No relevant relationships by Benjamin DelPrete, source=Web Response No relevant relationships by Lisa Glass, source=Web Response No relevant relationships by Marwa Oudah, source=Web Response

Short-Course Therapy in Newly Diagnosed Immunodeficiency-Associated Aggressive B-Cell Lymphoma

Background: While six cycles of chemotherapy is the standard curative approach in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), patients with immunodeficiencies and/or organ compromise may experience significant toxicity with this duration of therapy. Hence, balancing the competing needs of optimal aggressive lymphoma therapy with tolerable treatment-related toxicity is a challenge in this population. Previously, abbreviated therapy with short-course etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin and dose-dense rituximab (SC-EPOCH-RR) - where most patients received 3 cycles of therapy - demonstrated high efficacy in HIV-associated DLBCL (Dunleavy et al. Blood 2010; 115:3017-24). 79% of patients received 3 cycles of therapy and overall 91% of patients achieved a complete response (CR). Here we retrospectively evaluate the outcome of patients with newly diagnosed DLBCL who had an underlying immunodeficiency and/or chronic renal failure and received SC-EPOCH-RR at our institution. Methods: We included patients who had a new diagnosis of DLBCL (including primary effusion lymphoma (PEL)) associated with immunodeficiency (HIV or post-organ transplant) and/or chronic renal failure. Therapy consisted of SC-EPOCH-RR (R was omitted in the patient with PEL) with intrathecal prophylaxis (as previously described). A total of three to four cycles of therapy was planned if an interim FDG-PET (following 2 cycles) was negative by Deauville criteria. A Deauville score of 1-3 was considered negative and 4-5 positive. In patients who were HIV positive, anti-retroviral therapy (ART) was continued as long as there were no significant ART-chemotherapy interactions. Results: Characteristics of 7 included patients are as follows: median age 43 (25-75); 5 (71%) were male; 6 (85.7%) had stage 3 or 4 disease; 6 (85.7%) had elevated LDH at diagnosis; 5(71.4%) had an International Prognostic index (IPI) score of 3-5; 5 (71%) were HIV positive and 3 (43%) had chronic renal failure (including 1 patient on chronic immunosuppression post-renal transplant for granulomatosis with polyangiitis). All had a diagnosis of DLBCL, 4 who were GCB and 2 non-GCB by the Hans algorithm, while 1 had extra-cavitary PEL. Two patients had c-MYC rearrangements by FISH. For HIV positive patients, the median CD4 count at diagnosis was 266 (32-292). No patient had CNS disease. All patients received 3 (4 patients) or 4 (3 patients) cycles of therapy. Responses were CR in all patients as assessed by end of therapy (EOT) FDG-PET. All patients had a negative interim PET by Deauville criteria (scores 1-3). One patient with HIV-associated DLBCL (CD4 count 32 at diagnosis and non-GCB subtype by immunohistochemistry) relapsed with CNS disease 4 weeks after achieving a negative EOT-PET and died from disease progression several weeks later. All other patients (6/7) are progression-free with a median follow-up time of 6 months. Conclusions: Albeit small numbers and short follow-up in our series, in a 'real-world' setting, abbreviated therapy was highly effective in patients with immunodeficiency-related DLBCL and/or in the setting of chronic renal failure. Using an interim PET guided approach, 3-4 cycles of therapy is highly effective and importantly limits toxicity in this population. Though the series was not large enough to accurately identify poor prognostic clinical and tumor factors, the patient with progression had a non-GCB tumor and was severely immunosuppressed, characteristics previously shown to be associated with adverse outcomes in this population. We continue to expand our series and follow-up. Additional studies are needed evaluating abbreviated therapy (SC-EPOCH-RR) in immunosuppressed and organ-compromised patients with aggressive B cell lymphomas for whom there is a paucity of experience and toxicity concerns limit delivery of standard, potentially curative therapy. Disclosures Smith: EUSA: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau; Astra-Zeneca: Honoraria, Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees, Speakers Bureau. Dunleavy:Pharmacyclics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.

Remission of an HHV8-related extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma in an HIV-positive patient during antiretroviral treatment containing dolutegravir

BackgroundHuman herpes virus 8 (HHV8) is the causative agent of Kaposi’s sarcoma and has been associated with an increasing number of hematologic diseases such as primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) (both classic and extracavitary form), multicentric Castleman disease and the germinotropic lymphoproliferative disorder. PEL is a rare B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that primarily affects immunocompromised patients; aggressive chemotherapy and antiretroviral therapy (ART) with protease inhibitors have been used, with poor results. We present a case of extracavitary PEL in an HIV-infected patient, regressed after ART initiation.Case presentationA 42-year-old male was admitted to the emergency room because of several months of malaise, fever and progressive deterioration of the general conditions. On physical examination soft non-painful subcutaneous masses were palpable at retronuchal, retroauricolar and thoracic regions. HIV serology resulted positive: HIV plasma viremia was 782,270 copies/mL, CD4 103 cells/mL. The excision of one of the masses, metabolically active at a positron emission tomography (PET-CT) scan, revealed an HHV8-related extracavitary PEL. HHV8 plasma viremia was 44,826 copies/mL. ART with tenofovir alafenamide/emtricitabine/dolutegravir was started together with ganciclovir for cytomegalovirus chorioretinitis. The progressive disappearance of the masses was seen after 6 weeks of ART, and a PET-CT scan resulted completely negative at 3 months. After 19 months of ART the patient was in remission of PEL, HIV viremia was undetectable (< 20 copies/mL), CD4 count was 766 cells/mL and HHV8 viremia was undetectable.ConclusionsIn this clinical case, the complete regression of PEL has been achieved after the immune recovery, as a consequence of ART introduction, without chemotherapy. It cannot be excluded that ganciclovir, used for the treatment of CMV chorioretinitis, may have contributed to the control of HHV8 replication. Whether to try or not a conservative approach in HIV-infected PEL patients must be carefully evaluated, considering the patient’s characteristics and the prognostic factors.

Primary Effusion Lymphoma with Extracavitary Presentation and A T-Cell Immunophenotype: A Potential Diagnostic Pitfall

<p class=MsoListParagraph style=margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;mso-add-space: auto;text-align:justify;text-indent:0in;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; mso-mirror-indents:yes> 1. Abstract <p class=MsoNormalCxSpMiddle style=margin-bottom:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-add-space:auto;text-align:justify;line-height:normal;mso-mirror-indents: yes> Primary Effusion Lymphoma (PEL) is a unique immunodeficiency-associated malignancy that requires infection with Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus/human herpesvirus 8 (KSHV/HHV8). Although thought to arise from mature B-lymphocytes, PEL typically has a null Immunophenotype but can very rarely show lineage specific aberrancies, including aberrant T-cell markers. Here we present one such case of PEL where aberrant T-cell markers led to a misdiagnosis of peripheral T-cell lymphoma. We performed a review of the literature to identify similar cases of PEL with strong T-cell antigen expression. Most cases occurred in men who were HIV positive or otherwise immunodeficient. Many were EBV positive. Rare cases demonstrated T-cell receptor gene rearrangements. Postulated theories for the cause of disordered differentiation include immunodeficiency and/or EBV infection. The expression of T-cell antigens on PELs may be a source for error in diagnosis and awareness of this correlation is of practical diagnostic relevance. <p class=MsoListParagraph style=margin:0in;margin-bottom:.0001pt;mso-add-space: auto;text-align:justify;text-indent:0in;line-height:normal;mso-list:l0 level1 lfo1; mso-mirror-indents:yes> 2. Keywords: <span style=font-size:10.0pt;font-family: times= new= roman,serif;color:black;mso-themecolor:text1=> Body Cavity Lymphoma; Effusion Lymphoma; Extracavitary Primary Effusion Lymphoma; KSHV/HHV8; PEL; Primary Effusion Lymphoma; T-Cell Primary Effusion Lymphoma

Human Herpesvirus 8 and Lymphoproliferative Disorders.

The spectrum of lymphoproliferative disorders linked to human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) infection has constantly been increasing since the discovery of its first etiologic association with primary effusion lymphoma (PEL). PEL is a rapidly progressing non-Hodgkin’s B-cell lymphoma that develops in body cavities in an effusional form. With the increase in the overall survival of PEL patients, as well as the introduction of HHV-8 surveillance in immunocompromised patients, the extracavitary, solid counterpart of PEL was later identified. Moreover, virtually all plasmablastic variants of multicentric Castleman’s disease (MCD) developing in HIV-1-infected individuals harbor HHV-8, providing a strong etiologic link between MCD and this oncogenic herpesvirus. Two other pathologic conditions develop in HIV-1-infected persons concomitantly with MCD: MCD with plasmablastic clusters and HHV-8-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma not otherwise specified (HHV-8+ DLBCL NOS), the first likely representing an intermediate stage preceding the full neoplastic form. MCD in leukemic phase has also been described, albeit much less commonly. The germinotropic lymphoproliferative disorder (GLPD) may resemble extracavitary PEL, but develops in immune competent HHV8-infected individuals, and, unlike the other disorders, it responds well to conventional therapies. Almost all HHV-8-mediated lymphoproliferative disorders are the result of an interaction between HHV-8 infection and a dysregulated immunological system, leading to the formation of inflammatory niches in which B cells, at different developmental stages, are infected, proliferate and may eventually shift from a polyclonal state to a monoclonal/neoplastic disorder. Herein, we describe the association between HHV-8 and lymphoproliferative disorders and highlight the predominant distinctive features of each disease.

Extracavitary Primary Effusion Lymphoma With an Atypical Immunophenotype

Extracavitary Primary Effusion Lymphoma With an Atypical Immunophenotype

Pathology and classification of aggressive mature B-cell lymphomas.

Pathology and classification of aggressive mature B-cell lymphomas.

HIV-associated Extracavitary Primary Effusion Lymphoma Successfully Treated with Antiretroviral Agents and CHOP Combination Chemotherapy

HIV-associated Extracavitary Primary Effusion Lymphoma Successfully Treated with Antiretroviral Agents and CHOP Combination Chemotherapy

Extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma associated with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.

Extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma associated with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis.

KSHV/HHV-8 associated lymph node based lymphomas in HIV seronegative subjects. Case report and review of the literature

Extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma (ExPEL) is a rare, high-grade lymphoproliferative disorder that displays immunoblastic, plasmablastic, or anaplastic morphology. It usually lacks expression of B-cell and T-cell markers, but often expresses the plasma cell markers CD138 and MUM1, and the activation marker CD30, along with EMA. ExPEL, similar to classic PEL occurring as lymphomatous effusions in serous body cavities without an associated tumor mass, is consistently associated with human herpes virus-8 (HHV8) infection, while a majority of cases also exhibits Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) co-infection. Clinically, it is characterized by an almost exclusive male predominance (98% male), HIV-positivity (96% of patients are HIV+), acute presentation with B symptoms, and unfavorable overall survival (40% of patients die within 2months). We report an asymptomatic HIV-negative female patient with incidentally found splenomegaly and extensive PET FDG-avid retroperitoneal, pelvic, and mediastinal lymphadenopathy. A core biopsy of her right pelvic lymph node showed aggregates of atypical cells with anaplastic features. Immunohistochemistry revealed that the neoplastic cells were positive for CD45, CD20, CD30, MUM1, CD138, EMA, CD3, HHV-8 and EBER. The diagnosis of ExPEL was established. Against medical advice and given the absence of significant symptoms, the patient refused to start treatment. Four months after the diagnosis, the patient remains asymptomatic, and follow-up CT scan demonstrates stability of her lymphadenopathy. We present here a case of ExPEL in which the patient's presentation defies the clinical norms, illustrating that ExPEL should also be included in the differential diagnosis of lymphomas occurring in asymptomatic HIV-negative patients.

Classic and extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma in 51 HIV‐infected patients from a single institution

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-associated primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) is a rare B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma with poor prognosis. Lymphoma cells are always infected with human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8) and in most cases coinfected with Epstein-Barr virus. In classic presentation, PEL is characterized by body cavity effusions with or without mass lesions. A variant with only extracavitary localization has also been described. We report on a large single-center series of patients with PEL in the era of combined antiretroviral therapy (cART). The main objective was to compare the characteristics and the outcome of patients with classic (n = 34) and extracavitary (n = 17) variant PEL. At PEL diagnosis, no major difference was observed between the two groups in terms of demographic and HIV characteristics. Extracavitary localizations were exclusively nodal in six patients and involved various organs in 11 patients. Another HHV-8-associated disease was observed in 31 patients, Kaposi sarcoma in 25, and multicentric Castleman disease in 18 patients, without difference between the two groups. Thirty-two patients were treated with CHOP associated with high-dose methotrexate, 13 were treated with CHOP-derived regimen alone, and six patients received low-dose/no chemotherapy. Complete remission was achieved in 21 (62%) and seven (41%) patients of the classic and extracavitary groups, respectively. The median overall survival (OS) was 10.2 months. Despite a higher disease-free survival in the extracavitary group, there was no difference in OS between the two variants. Based on this series, characteristics of classic and extracavitary variants were very close. Although prognosis of PEL remains very severe in cART era, the median survival compares favorably with earlier series.

Ibrutinib for Transformed Lymphoma; A Report of 4 Patients

IntroductionLarge cell lymphoma transformed from an indolent lymphoproliferative disorder typically carries a worse prognosis than de novo diffuse large B cell lymphoma. When transformation to large cell lymphoma occurs in CLL (Richter's syndrome), traditional anthracycline or platinum based therapy is associated with a median survival of <12 months. Better, more targeted therapies are needed. We describe 4 patients with transformation to large cell lymphoma who responded to ibrutinib.Cases:Patient A, age 68 at transformation, was a 64 year old male at diagnosis with CLL Rai stage 1. He was initially asymptomatic with a performance status of 0. 4 years later he developed dyspnea on exertion after one block and was found to have a left pleural effusion with diffuse lymphadenopathy with increased PET avidity. Biopsy of a supraclavicular node was positive for extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma, HHV8+, CD5-, CD10-. Patient was given R-CHOP x 6 cycles; he relapsed after 18 months and was given ibrutinib 560mg daily with monthly rituximab x 6 and achieved a PR with reversion to CLL. He is currently continuing ibrutinib in this remission for 10+ months.Patient B, age 90 at transformation, was a 68 year old female at diagnosis of CLL, Rai stage 0. She developed stage III CLL 18 years after diagnosis, was treated with BR x 6 cycles. 2 years later she developed Richter's transformation which was CD10+. Although she achieved a PR after 4 months of ibrutinib 560mg with monthly rituximab, her PS was 4 and she was transferred to hospice and expired 4.5 months after initiating ibrutinib/rituximab.Patient C, age 87 at relapse, was a 73 year old male at diagnosis when he originally presented with stage 1 DLBCL transformed from marginal zone lymphoma. He had 3 cycles of R-CHOP and RT to involved area and was disease free for 14 years until he had worsening thrombocytopenia. This was monitored for 3 years until age 87 when CT/PET showed increasing SUV in multiple lymph nodes and the spleen. Biopsy showed diffuse large B cell lymphoma, CD10-. He was started on ibrutinib 560mg with monthly rituximab x 6. He achieved a CR by CT/PET except for persistent splenic disease. He underwent splenectomy and continues in CR on ibrutinib at 9+ months.Patient D is an 83 year old female with large cell transformation from marginal zone lymphoma at diagnosis. She had stage IV disease with large cells involving pleural fluid and bone marrow. She was CD10-. She received R-CHOP x 3 with progressive disease. At that time ibrutinib 560mg alone was initiated. She has a CR based on recent CT/PET findings and is continuing ibrutinib at 18+ months.Conclusion:All of the above patients responded to ibrutinib given with or without rituximab with symptomatic and objective remissions; all of the CD10 negative cases are alive and still responding 9-18 months after initiating therapy. Studies examining the efficacy of ibrutinib in diffuse large B cell lymphoma are underway. This report supports the need for further study of ibrutinib in the transformed setting, particularly in the elderly where patients may not be appropriate for aggressive therapies. DisclosuresOff Label Use: Ibrutinib was used to treat transformed large cell lymphoma.. Kolitz:Pharmacyclics: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees. Barrientos:Gilead: Research Funding; NIH/NCATS: Research Funding; ASH-AMFDP: Research Funding. Allen:Millennium: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Bristol-Myers Squibb: Equity Ownership; Onconova: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees; Alexion: Membership on an entity's Board of Directors or advisory committees.

Extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma: A case report from India

We present a case of extracavitary primary effusion lymphoma presenting, as jejunal polyps in a 38-year-old man. This is the first report of this entity from India. Although rare in our country, the diagnosis should be suspected in cases of CD20 negative large cell lymphoma with plasmablastic or immunoblastic differentiation in seropositive patients. Immunostaining for latency-associated nuclear antigen-1 and in situ hybridization for Epstein-Barr virus-associated RNA will confirm the diagnosis.

Extracavity primary effusion lymphoma presenting in a lymph node without lymphomatous effusions

Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) is a distinct clinicopathologic entity associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8), which usually presents as a lymphomatous body cavity effusion. Rare cases of PEL are extracavitary and manifest as a solid tumor mass. Here we report an unusual case of extracavitary PEL (EPEL) involving lymph nodes with no evidence of a body cavity effusion. The neoplasm was comprised of large pleomorphic cells with prominent nucleoli and frequent mitotic figures that expressed HHV8, EBV, CD38 and CD30, but lacked all lineage-specific markers. The patient was found to be HIV positive after the diagnosis of EPEL. Antiretroviral therapy initially reduces tumor size, but the patient expired three months later due to multiple complications. PEL and EPEL are differing manifestations of a rare disease entity as defined by the World Health Organization 2008 classification. It is unknown why a small subset of these cases forms extracavitary masses with or without malignant effusions. Comparison with mouse xenograft models may provide unique insights into the pathogenesis of this disease for possible future studies.