[Successful treatment with L-asparaginase-based combination chemotherapy for refractory T-cell post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder]

Rinsho Ketsueki. 2007 Apr;48(4):305-9.
[Article in Japanese]

Abstract

A 31-year-old man underwent kidney transplantation in 1996, and had been on immunosuppressants. In 2005, he presented with discomfort on swallowing. Swelling of the left tonsil and a mediastinal mass were observed. A biopsy of the left tonsil showed a monotonous proliferation of atypical lymphocytes suggesting post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). The reduction of immunosuppressants did not result in any clinical improvements, and he developed bilateral cervical lymphadenopathy. A biopsy of the cervical lymph node also showed monotonous proliferation of TdT, CD3, CD5, CD7, CD10, and CD34-positive immature cells. T-cell receptor rearrangement, but not EBER, was detected. Based on these findings, monomorphic T-cell PTLD was diagnosed. He was treated with four different chemotherapeutic regimens without any clinical improvements, and the PTLD became leukemic. Chemotherapy consisting of L-asparaginase, vincristine, and dexamethasone (LVD) was then given, which resulted in massive tumor lysis. However, after two courses of LVD, complete remission was achieved. T-cell PTLD is a rare disorder, characterized by its refractoriness to chemotherapy as opposed to B-cell PTLD. Our experience suggests that L-asparaginase-based chemotherapy may improve the prognosis of T-cell PTLD.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use*
  • Asparaginase / administration & dosage*
  • Dexamethasone / administration & dosage
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Kidney Transplantation / adverse effects*
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / drug therapy*
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / etiology
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / pathology
  • Male
  • Remission Induction
  • T-Lymphocytes / pathology*
  • Vincristine / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Vincristine
  • Dexamethasone
  • Asparaginase