Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome-Related Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma affects 5% to 10% of patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in the United States. Usually of B-cell or indeterminate phenotype and high-grade histology, the disease shows a predilection to involve extranodal sites such as the bone marrow and the central nervous system. The pathogenesis involves chronic antigen stimulation producing B-cell hyperplasia in a setting of progressive immunologic deterioration. Treatment is not standardized and is tailored to the patient's immune function and clinical status. New approaches, validated by clinical trials, are needed.