HIV-associated lymphoma: the evidence for treating aggressively but with caution.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this article is to review key reports regarding the biology and management of HIV-associated lymphoma during the past year.


RESULTS
The use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has been associated with a reduced risk of primary cerebral and systemic non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a stable or slightly increased risk of Hodgkin's lymphoma, and improved prognosis for those who develop HIV-associated non-Hodgkin's lymphoma or Hodgkin's lymphoma. Emerging evidence suggests that patients with HIV-associated lymphoma should be treated in a similar manner as immunocompetent patients with the same disease, especially if the CD4 count is 50-100 cells/mul or higher. Use of the anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab in combination with chemotherapy appears to result in improved control of B-cell lymphoma, but may come at the expense of an increased risk of bacterial and viral infections.


CONCLUSIONS
Although the evidence currently supports an aggressive and curative approach for the management of HIV-associated lymphoma, clinicians must be vigilant about implementing infection prophylaxis and promptly recognizing, diagnosing, and treating bacterial, parasitic, fungal, and viral infections that may occur as a consequence of therapy.
Sparano
Joseph A
JA
Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Department of Oncology, Montefiore Medical Center, Weiler Division, Bronx, New York 10461, USA. jsparano@montefiore.org
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006678:HIV / Q000187:drug effects; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000821:virology; D006801:Humans; D016483:Lymphoma, AIDS-Related / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000821:virology
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents