title: B-cell lymphomagenesis in autoimmune diseases: the missing links.
abstract: Patients with autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjögren's syndrome have an increased risk of developing B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphomas but the mechanisms behind this phenomenon remain unknown. By focusing on recent research reports we explore and discuss some of the proposed mechanisms that contribute to this link. The complexity is enormous and can involve genetic and environmental factors, chronic immune stimulation by antigens, and even the treatment for these autoimmune diseases. These mechanisms can be combined in different ways causing great variability in one's predisposition to lymphomagenesis. Knowing more about these pathways is urgent. The more we know about autoimmune diseases the better we can treat our patients effectively and the more we can prevent lymphomas from developing.
authors: Autoimmune Diseases Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Central Hospital in Funchal, Funchal, Madeira Island 9054-535, Portugal. cdias1980@gmail.com
authors: Catarina
authors: C
authors: Dias
authors: Jorge
authors: J
authors: Martins
authors: Graça
authors: G
authors: Dias
authors: Teresa
authors: T
authors: Faria
authors: Luz Reis
authors: LR
authors: Brazão
mesh_terms: D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000150:complications / Q000378:metabolism; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000150:complications / Q000378:metabolism; D016393:Lymphoma, B-Cell / Q000209:etiology* / Q000378:metabolism*; D012859:Sjogren's Syndrome / Q000150:complications / Q000378:metabolism