Autoimmunity and Lymphoma: A Brief Review

Abstract

The relationship between the immune system and both Hodgkin’s (HL) and Non-Hodgkin’s (NHL) lymphomas is a complex bidirectional process which has fascinated researchers and clinicians for many years. Lymphomas of all types are known to be associated with autoimmune paraneoplastic manifestations, and conversely are recognized in increased frequency in patients with pre-existing autoimmune diseases. This review briefly surveys this two-way process whereby lymphomas induce autoimmune dysfunction, and autoimmune system dysfunction induces lymphomagenesis. An emphasis on the clinical manifestations of these disorders is presented along with a brief overview of the pathophysiologic mechanisms involved.