Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody therapy in Epstein-Barr Virus-associated B cell lymphoma following lung transplantation

J Heart Lung Transplant. 2000 May;19(5):492-5. doi: 10.1016/s1053-2498(00)00087-5.

Abstract

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease is a complication of bone marrow and solid organ transplantation, mostly associated with Epstein-Barr virus infection and chronic immunosuppression. Even if spontaneous resolution after cessation of immunosuppressive therapy can be observed, the prognosis of this disorder is usually poor with a low response to specific treatment. We describe a case of B-cell lymphoma of the nasopharynx occurring 6 months after double-lung transplantation. In spite of its monoclonal nature, anti-CD 20 monoclonal antibody given in the presence of reduced immunosuppression resulted in a complete response. The patient also received "consolidation" radiation therapy to prevent the recurrence. The treatment was well tolerated with minimal side effects. The patient was asymptomatic and had a well functioning graft more than 1 year after therapy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use*
  • Antibodies, Viral / analysis
  • Antigens, CD20 / immunology*
  • Biopsy
  • Burkitt Lymphoma / drug therapy*
  • Burkitt Lymphoma / etiology
  • DNA, Viral / analysis
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / genetics
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Lung Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / etiology
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / prevention & control
  • Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Viral
  • Antigens, CD20
  • DNA, Viral
  • Immunosuppressive Agents