Successful treatment of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in a patient with ataxia telangiectasia using rituximab

J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2013 Aug;35(6):482-5. doi: 10.1097/MPH.0b013e3182804d59.

Abstract

Ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by cerebellar ataxia, telangiectasia, immune defect, and predisposition to leukemia/lymphoma. Because of their hypersensitivity to DNA-damaging agents, patients with A-T may require special consideration. However, an optimal strategy for these patients has not been established. Here, we describe an A-T female with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma successfully treated with rituximab combined with reduced-dose chemotherapy. Given the high incidence of hematopoietic malignancies in patients with A-T, and the hypersensitivity of these patients to DNA-damaging agents, we discuss whether a reduced-dose chemotherapy with a molecular targeting agent may be of merit.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived / therapeutic use*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols
  • Ataxia Telangiectasia / complications*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / drug therapy*
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / etiology
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / physiopathology
  • Rituximab

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Rituximab