X-linked lymphoproliferative disease: genetic lesions and clinical consequences

X-linked lymphoproliferative disorder (XLP) was first described almost 30 years ago; remarkably, the three major manifestations of XLP, fulminant infectious mononucleosis (FIM), lymphoma, and dysgammaglobulinemia, are all described in the report of the initial kindred. Subsequent establishment of an XLP registry has led to recognition of more unusual phenotypes in affected males; concurrently, much progress has been made in caring for boys with XLP, including treatment for the three major phenotypes, and curative bone marrow transplantation (BMT). The immunologic and genetic mechanisms resulting in XLP have also been intensively studied. Several years ago, the gene defective in XLP was identified as SAP (SLAM-associated protein), and recent data suggest that SAP plays a broad role in immune signaling. Here, we review the clinical manifestations and therapy of XLP, and briefly summarize recent research into the structure and function of SAP.