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Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with low dose methotrexate
1Department of Medicine, University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria 61656, USA.
Abstract:
We describe 2 patients who developed non-Hodgkin's lymphoma during treatment with low dose methotrexate (MTX) for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A review of the literature identified 16 more cases published in English. Among these 18 patients, the mean RA duration was 16 yrs and lymphoma developed after a mean of 2.8 yrs of treatment with MTX. The mean total dose of MTX was 1224 mg. Although 3 patients had spontaneous regression of lymphoma, 5 of the 18 patients died. It is not known whether there is cause-effect relationship between MTX and lymphoma among patients with RA. Special awareness of this possible complication of MTX is important.
Insights
Low-dose methotrexate (MTX) treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may be linked to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Awareness of this potential complication is crucial for patients and physicians managing RA.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease.
- Methotrexate (MTX) is a common disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) used for RA.
- Lymphoma is a potential complication in patients with autoimmune diseases.
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