B-cell lymphoma in two monogamous homosexual men

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Oncology
• Infectious Disease

Background:

• Opportunistic infections and cancers are observed in homosexual men with immune system abnormalities.
• Previous studies have documented associations between immunologic dysfunction and specific neoplasms.

Observation:

• Two homosexual men in a long-term monogamous relationship developed malignant B-cell lymphomas.
• Patient 1 presented with aggressive, monoclonal, small, noncleaved, non-Burkitt's lymphoma (undifferentiated lymphoma) and severe immunocompromise.
• Patient 2 developed a monoclonal, small, cleaved, follicular center cell lymphoma with a follicular pattern two months later.

Findings:

• No common acute infection was identified in either patient.
• Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen staining was negative in the malignant tissue of Patient 2.
• Both patients developed distinct types of monoclonal B-cell lymphomas.

Implications:

• The findings suggest a potential role for a transmissible agent in the development of lymphomas in immunocompromised individuals.
• Further investigation into similar cases is warranted to understand the etiology of these lymphomas.
• This study highlights the importance of monitoring for neoplasms in immunocompromised populations.