EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disorder of CNS associated with the use of mycophenolate mofetil

Brian Patrick O'Neill, Steven Vernino, Ahmet Dogan, Caterina Giannini

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

48 Scopus citations

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated lymphoid proliferations are a well-recognized complication of congenital or acquired systemic immunosuppression. The CNS is a frequent site for development of such lymphoid proliferations. We describe the clinical, imaging, and pathologic observations of a CNS disorder histologically similar to posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder that occurred in four patients with autoimmune disease treated with mycophenolate mofetil (MM). Two patients had polymorphous lymphoplasmacytic infiltration of brain parenchyma, and two had monomorphous infiltrations consistent with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. In situ hybridization for EBV-encoded RNA was positive in all four patients. All patients improved after MM withdrawal and the use of rituximab. Because of a favorable toxicity profile, MM is now being used as steroid-sparing immunomodulatory therapy in autoimmune disorders. Based on our experience presented herein, we recommend caution in patient selection for MM and strict surveillance of those patients with autoimmune disorders who receive MM.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)364-369
Number of pages6
JournalNeuro-oncology
Volume9
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2007

Keywords

  • CNS
  • EBV
  • Lymphoproliferation
  • Mycophenolate
  • Primary CNS lymphoma

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Oncology
  • Clinical Neurology
  • Cancer Research

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