title: Multiple associations between a broad spectrum of autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammatory diseases and cancer.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Many recent studies suggest the immune system plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammatory diseases, and cancer.
  
  
  METHODS
  Literature published between 2001 and 2011 was reviewed for risk of cancer development in patients with autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. Mode of risk assessment employed did not limit inclusion of studies. Autoimmune conditions developing after diagnosis of a pre-existing cancer were also considered.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We report a pervasive, largely positive association between 23 autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and subsequent cancer development. We discuss associations for celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis in detail. We also address the less frequently reported development of some autoimmune conditions within the course of some malignancies, such as vitiligo developing in the course of melanoma.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Evidence demonstrates that chronic inflammation and autoimmunity are associated with the development of malignancy. Additionally, patients with a primary malignancy may develop autoimmune like disease. These relationships imply a need for surveillance of patients on immunomodulatory therapies for potential secondary disease processes.
authors.affiliation: Integrated Department of Immunology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
authors.forename: Alexis L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Franks
authors.forename: Jill E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Slansky
mesh_terms: D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000150:complications*; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications*