Epstein-Barr Virus–Positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma of the Elderly: What We Know So Far

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus–positive (EBV-positive) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the elderly is a newly described lymphoproliferative disorder recently included as a “provisional” entity in the most current WHO Classification of Tumours of Haematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues. The objective of this review is to provide a thorough and current summary of the existing knowledge of this subtype of DLBCL. We will review and discuss the incidence of EBV expression in DLBCL, the pathogenesis behind EBV-driven malignant transformation of B cells, the different EBV latency patterns associated with DLBCL, the distinct pathologic characteristics of EBV-positive DLBCL, the potential predictive and prognostic value of EBV tumoral status in patients with DLBCL, and potential strategies for the treatment of this rare entity, which is characterized by a suboptimal response to therapy and poor survival rate.