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Identifying Dysregulated Genes Induced by Kaposi's Sarcoma-associated Herpesvirus (KSHV)
Published on: September 14, 2010
Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus-Related Solid Lymphoma Involving the Heart and Brain
Jason R Andrews1, Yoon Andrew Cho-Park, Judith Ferry
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Cox 506, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Insights
Kaposi
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Immunology
Background:
- Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) is linked to lymphoproliferative disorders in HIV-infected individuals.
- Common KSHV-associated lymphomas include multicentric Castleman's Disease (MCD) and primary effusion lymphoma.
Observation:
- An HIV-infected patient presented with an unusual KSHV-associated lymphoma.
- The lymphoma involved the heart (myocardium) and central nervous system.
Findings:
- This case highlights a rare presentation of KSHV-associated lymphoma.
- The findings expand the known spectrum of KSHV-driven malignancies.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider KSHV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders in HIV patients with mass lesions, especially with a history of Kaposi's sarcoma.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for timely management of these rare conditions.
Abstract:
Since its discovery in 1994, Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) has been associated with lymphoproliferative disorders, particularly in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The disorders most strongly linked to KSHV are multicentric Castleman's Disease (MCD), primary effusion lymphoma, and diffuse large B-cell lymphomas. We report an unusual case of KSHV-associated lymphoma in an HIV-infected patient manifesting with myocardial and central nervous system involvement. We discuss this case in the context of increasing array of KSHV-associated lymphomas. In the HIV-infected patient with a mass lesion, a history of cutaneous Kaposi's sarcoma and prolonged immunosuppression should alert clinicians as to the possibility of KSHV-associated lymphoproliferative disorders, in order to establish a timely diagnosis.
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