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[Rheumatoid arthritis and neoplasms]
1Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital B, CH et U, Lille.
Revue Du Rhumatisme (Ed. Francaise : 1993)
|December 15, 1994
Summary
Rheumatoid arthritis patients show a decreased overall cancer risk, especially colon cancer, but an increased risk for lymphoma and leukemia. Multiple myeloma association appears coincidental.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
Context:
- The association between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and various cancers has been debated.
- Understanding these relationships is crucial for patient management and risk assessment.
Purpose:
- To synthesize current evidence on the relationship between rheumatoid arthritis and the risk of developing malignant diseases.
- To clarify the impact of RA on cancer incidence and mortality.
Summary:
- Available data suggest a reduced overall cancer incidence in RA patients, notably for colon cancer, with no significant effect on cancer mortality.
- Conversely, a higher relative risk for lymphoma and leukemia has been observed.
- The co-occurrence of RA and multiple myeloma appears coincidental (relative risk ~2).
Impact:
- This review clarifies cancer risks in rheumatoid arthritis patients, highlighting increased risks for specific hematologic malignancies.
- It underscores the need for continued research into the underlying mechanisms and the influence of treatments like methotrexate.