Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is linked to approximately 90% of B-cell lymphomas associated with posttransplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD), a serious complication for immunosuppressed transplant recipients. In this paper, we review the myriad ways by which EBV can inadvertently drive the genesis and persistence of B-cell lymphomas, particularly when the antiviral immune response is compromised. Probing the basic mechanisms by which EBV infection proceeds and contributes to malignancy in such cases will hopefully improve our understanding and treatment of PTLD and other EBV-associated malignancies.
MeSH terms
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Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications
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Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / prevention & control*
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Herpesvirus 4, Human / immunology
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Herpesvirus 4, Human / pathogenicity*
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Herpesvirus 4, Human / physiology
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Humans
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Immunocompromised Host
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Immunotherapy / methods
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Lymphoma, B-Cell / immunology
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Lymphoma, B-Cell / prevention & control
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Lymphoma, B-Cell / virology*
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Lymphoproliferative Disorders / immunology
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Lymphoproliferative Disorders / prevention & control
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Lymphoproliferative Disorders / virology*
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Organ Transplantation / adverse effects
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Postoperative Complications / prevention & control
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Postoperative Complications / virology