Sepsis is a common complication of combat injuries and trauma,and is defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection.It is also one of the significant causes of deat...Sepsis is a common complication of combat injuries and trauma,and is defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection.It is also one of the significant causes of death and increased health care costs in modern intensive care units.The use of antibiotics,fluid resuscitation,and organ support therapy have limited prognostic impact in patients with sepsis.Although its pathophysiology remains elusive,immunosuppression is now recognized as one of the major causes of septic death.Sepsis-induced immunosuppression is resulted from disruption of immune homeostasis.It is characterized by the release of antiinflammatory cytokines,abnormal death of immune effector cells,hyperproliferation of immune suppressor cells,and expression of immune checkpoints.By targeting immunosuppression,especially with immune checkpoint inhibitors,preclinical studies have demonstrated the reversal of immunocyte dysfunctions and established host resistance.Here,we comprehensively discuss recent findings on the mechanisms,regulation and biomarkers of sepsis-induced immunosuppression and highlight their implications for developing effective strategies to treat patients with septic shock.展开更多
Stroke-induced immunosuppression is a process that leads to peripheral suppression of the immune system after a stroke and belongs to the central nervous system injury-induced immunosuppressive syndrome.Stroke-induced...Stroke-induced immunosuppression is a process that leads to peripheral suppression of the immune system after a stroke and belongs to the central nervous system injury-induced immunosuppressive syndrome.Stroke-induced immunosuppression leads to increased susceptibility to post-stroke infections,such as urinary tract infections and stroke-associated pneumonia,worsening prognosis.Molecular chaperones are a large class of proteins that are able to maintain proteostasis by directing the folding of nascent polypeptide chains,refolding misfolded proteins,and targeting misfolded proteins for degradation.Various molecular chaperones have been shown to play roles in stroke-induced immunosuppression by modulating the activity of other molecular chaperones,cochaperones,and their associated pathways.This review summarizes the role of molecular chaperones in stroke-induced immunosuppression and discusses new approaches to restore host immune defense after stroke.展开更多
Emerged evidence has indicated that immunosuppression is involved in the occurrence and development of sepsis.To provide clinical practice recommendations on the immune function in sepsis,an expert consensus focusing ...Emerged evidence has indicated that immunosuppression is involved in the occurrence and development of sepsis.To provide clinical practice recommendations on the immune function in sepsis,an expert consensus focusing on the monitoring and treatment of sepsis-induced immunosuppression was developed.Literature related to the immune monitoring and treatment of sepsis were retrieved from PubMed,Web of Science,and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure to design items and expert opinions were collected through an online questionnaire.Then,the Delphi method was used to form consensus opinions,and RAND appropriateness method was developed to provide consistency evaluation and recommendation levels for consensus opinions.This consensus achieved satisfactory results through two rounds of questionnaire survey,with 2 statements rated as perfect consistency,13 as very good consistency,and 9 as good consistency.After summarizing the results,a total of 14 strong recommended opinions,8 weak recommended opinions and 2 non-recommended opinions were produced.Finally,a face-to-face discussion of the consensus opinions was performed through an online meeting,and all judges unanimously agreed on the content of this consensus.In summary,this expert consensus provides a preliminary guidance for the monitoring and treatment of immunosuppression in patients with sepsis.展开更多
The optimal level of immunosuppression in solid organ transplantation,in particular for the liver,is a delicate balance between the benefit of preventing rejection and the adverse side effects of immunosuppression. Th...The optimal level of immunosuppression in solid organ transplantation,in particular for the liver,is a delicate balance between the benefit of preventing rejection and the adverse side effects of immunosuppression. There is uncertainty about when this level is achieved in any individual recipient. Immunosuppression regimens vary between individual centers and changes with time asnew agents and data are available. Presently concerns about the adverse side effects of calcineurin inhibitor,the main class of immunosuppressive agents used in liver transplantation(LT),has led to consideration of the use of antibody induction therapies for patients at higher risk of developing adverse side effects. The longevity of the transplanted organ is potentially improved by better management of rejection episodes and special consideration for tailoring of immunosuppression to the individual with viral hepatitis C,hepatocellular carcinoma or pregnancy. This review provides an overview of the current strategies for post LT immunosuppression and discusses modifications to consider for special patient populations.展开更多
Acute pancreatitis(AP) is a common disease,which usually exists in its mild form.However,in a fifth of cases,the disease is severe,with local pancreatic complications or systemic organ dysfunction or both.Because the ...Acute pancreatitis(AP) is a common disease,which usually exists in its mild form.However,in a fifth of cases,the disease is severe,with local pancreatic complications or systemic organ dysfunction or both.Because the development of organ failure is the major cause of death in AP,early identification of patients likely to develop organ failure is important.AP is initiated by intracellular activation of pancreatic proenzymes and autodigestion of the pancreas.Destruction of the pancreatic parenchyma first induces an inflammatory reaction locally,but may lead to overwhelming systemic production of inflammatory mediators and early organ failure.Concomitantly,anti-inflammatory cytokines and specific cytokine inhibitors are produced.This anti-inflammatory reaction may overcompensate and inhibit the immune response,rendering the host at risk of systemic infection.At present,there is no specific treatment for AP.Increased understanding of the pathogenesis of systemic inflammation and development of organ dysfunction may provide us with drugs to ameliorate physiological disturbances.展开更多
In patients with inflammatory bowel disease(IBD), chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for the development of gastrointestinal malignancies. The pathogenesis of colitis-associated cancer is distinct from sporad...In patients with inflammatory bowel disease(IBD), chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for the development of gastrointestinal malignancies. The pathogenesis of colitis-associated cancer is distinct from sporadic colorectal carcinoma and the critical molecular mechanisms underlying this process have yet to be elucidated. Patients with IBD have also been shown to be at increased risk of developing extra-intestinal malignancies. Medical therapies that diminish the mucosal inflammatory response represent the foundation of treatment in IBD, and recent evidence supports their introduction earlier in the disease course. However, therapies that alter the immune system, often used for long durations, may also promote carcinogenesis. As the population of patients with IBD grows older, with longer duration of chronic inflammation and longer exposure to immunosuppression, there is an increasing risk of cancer development. Many of these patients will require cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, and surgery. Many patients will require further treatment for their IBD. This review seeks to explore the characteristics and risks of cancer in patients with IBD, and to evaluate the limited data on patients with IBD and cancer, including management of IBD after a diagnosis of cancer, the effects of cancer treatment on IBD, and the effect of IBD and medications for IBD on cancer outcomes.展开更多
Cervical cancer is a worldwide disease that constitutes a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries, not only due to its high incidence but also because the most affected population compris...Cervical cancer is a worldwide disease that constitutes a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries, not only due to its high incidence but also because the most affected population comprises women who belong to marginalized socio-economic classes. Clinical and molecular research has identified immunological impairment in squamous intraepithelial cervical lesions and cervical cancer patients. Human Papillomavirus(HPV) has several mechanisms for avoiding the immune system: it down-regulates the expression of interferon and upregulates interleukin(IL)-10and transforming growth factor(TGF)-β1 to produce a local immunosuppressive environment, which, along with altered tumor surface antigens, forms an immunosuppressive network that inhibits the antitumor immune response. In this review we analyzed the available data on several deregulated cellular immune functions in patients with NIC Ⅰ, NIC Ⅱ and NIC Ⅲ and cervical cancer. The effects of immunosuppressive cytokines on innate immune response, T-cell activation and cellular factors that promote tumor cell proliferation in cervical cancer patients are summarized. We discuss the functional consequences of HPV E2, E6, and E7 protein interactions with IL-10 and TGF-β1 promoters in the induction of these cytokines and postulate its effect on the cellular immune response in squamous intraepithelial cervical lesions and cervical cancer patients. This review provides a comprehensive picture of the immunological functions of IL-10 and TGF-β1 in response to HPV in humans.展开更多
AIM: To present the characteristics and the course of a series of anti- hepatitis B virus core antibody (HBc) antibody positive patients, who experienced hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation after immunosuppression. M...AIM: To present the characteristics and the course of a series of anti- hepatitis B virus core antibody (HBc) antibody positive patients, who experienced hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation after immunosuppression. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated in our tertiary centers the medical records of hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) negative patients who suffered from HBV reactivation after chemotherapy or immunosuppression during a 3-year period (2009-2011). Accordingly, the clinical, laboratory and virological characteristics of 10 anti-HBc (+) anti-HBs (-)/HBsAg (-) and 4 anti-HBc (+)/antiHBs (+)/HBsAg (-) patients, who developed HBV reactivation after the initiation of chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatment were analyzed. Quantitative determination of HBV DNA during reactivation was performed in all cases by a quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction kit (COBAS Taqman HBV Test; cut-off of detection: 6 IU/mL). RESULTS: Twelve out of 14 patients were males; median age 74.5 years. In 71.4% of them the primary diagnosis was hematologic malignancy; 78.6% had received rituximab (R) as part of the immunosuppressive regimen. The median time from last chemotherapy schedule till HBV reactivation for 10 out of 11 patients who received R was 3 (range 2-17) mo. Three patients (21.4%) deteriorated, manifesting ascites and hepatic encephalopathy and 2 (14.3%) of them died due to liver failure. CONCLUSION: HBsAg-negative anti-HBc antibody positive patients can develop HBV reactivation even 2 years after stopping immunosuppression, whereas prompt antiviral treatment on diagnosis of reactivation can be lifesaving.展开更多
BACKGROUND Immunosuppression has undoubtedly raised the overall positive outcomes in the post-operative management of solid organ transplantation. However, long-term exposure to immunosuppression is associated with cr...BACKGROUND Immunosuppression has undoubtedly raised the overall positive outcomes in the post-operative management of solid organ transplantation. However, long-term exposure to immunosuppression is associated with critical systemic morbidities. De novo malignancies following orthotopic liver transplants (OLTs) are a serious threat in pediatric and adult transplant individuals. Data from different experiences were reported and compared to assess the connection between immunosuppression and de novo malignancies in liver transplant patients. AIM To study the role of immunosuppression on the incidence of de novo malignancies in liver transplant recipients. METHODS A systematic literature examination about de novo malignancies and immunosuppression weaning in adult and pediatric OLT recipients was described in the present review. Worldwide data were collected from highly qualified institutions performing OLTs. Patient follow-up, immunosuppression discontinuation and incidence of de novo malignancies were reported. Likewise, the review assesses the differences in adult and pediatric recipients by describing the adopted immunosuppression regimens and the different type of diagnosed solid and blood malignancy.RESULTS Emerging evidence suggests that the liver is an immunologically privileged organ able to support immunosuppression discontinuation in carefully selected recipients. Malignancies are often detected in liver transplant patients undergoing daily immunosuppression regimens. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative diseases and skin tumors are the most detected de novo malignancies in the pediatric and adult OLT population, respectively. To date, immunosuppression withdrawal has been achieved in up to 40% and 60% of well-selected adult and pediatric recipients, respectively. In both populations, a clear benefit of immunosuppression weaning protocols on de novo malignancies is difficult to ascertain because data have not been specified in most of the clinical experiences. CONCLUSION The selected populations of tolerant pediatric and adult liver transplant recipients greatly benefit from immunosuppression weaning. There is still no strong clinical evidence on the usefulness of immunosuppression withdrawal in OLT recipients on malignancies. An interesting focus is represented by the complete reconstitution of the immunological pathways that could help in decreasing the incidence of de novo malignancies and may also help in treating liver transplant patients suffering from cancer.展开更多
Liver transplantation has been the treatment of choice for end-stage liver disease since 1983.Cancer has emerged as a major long-term cause of death for liver transplant recipients.Many retrospective studies that have...Liver transplantation has been the treatment of choice for end-stage liver disease since 1983.Cancer has emerged as a major long-term cause of death for liver transplant recipients.Many retrospective studies that have explored standardized incidence ratio have reported increased rates of solid organ cancers postliver transplantation;some have also studied risk factors.Liver transplantation results in a two to five-fold mean increase in the rate of solid organ cancers.Risk of head and neck,lung,esophageal,cervical cancers and Kaposi’s sarcoma is high,but risk of colorectal cancer is not clearly demonstrated.There appears to be no excess risk of developing breast or prostate cancer.Environmental risk factors such as viral infection and tobacco consumption,and personal risk factors such as obesity play a key role,but recent data also implicate the role of calcineurin inhibitors,whose cumulative and dose-dependent effects on cell metabolism might play a direct role in oncogenesis.In this paper,we review the results of studies assessing the incidence of non-skin solid tumors in order to understand the mechanisms underlying solid cancers in post-liver transplant patients and,ultimately,discuss how to prevent these cancers.Immunosuppressive protocol changes,including a calcineurin inhibitor-free regimen,combined with dietary guidelines and smoking cessation,are theoretically the best preventive measures.展开更多
Immunosuppression(IS) is often withdrawn in patients with end stage renal disease secondary to a failed renal allograft, and this can lead to an accelerated loss of residual renal function(RRF). As maintenance of RRF ...Immunosuppression(IS) is often withdrawn in patients with end stage renal disease secondary to a failed renal allograft, and this can lead to an accelerated loss of residual renal function(RRF). As maintenance of RRF appears to provide a survival benefit to peritoneal dialysis(PD) patients, it is not clear whether this benefit of maintaining RRF in failed allograft patients returning to PD outweigh the risks of maintaining IS. A 49 year-old Caucasian male developed progressive allograft failure nine years after living-donor renal transplantation. Hemodialysis was initiated via tunneled dialysis catheter(TDC) and IS was gradually withdrawn. Two weeksafter IS withdrawal he developed a febrile illness, which necessitate removal of the TDC and conversion to PD. He was maintained on small dose of tacrolimus(1 mg/d) and prednisone(5 mg/d). Currently(1 year later) he is doing exceedingly well on cycler-assisted PD. Residual urine output ranges between 600-1200 m L/d. Total weekly Kt/V achieved 1.82. RRF remained well preserved in this patient with failed renal allograft with minimal immunosuppressive therapy. This strategy will need further study in well-defined cohorts of PD patients with failed allografts and residual RRF to determine efficacy and safety.展开更多
AIM:To assess the advantages and disadvantages of immunosuppression monotherapy after transplantation and the impact of monotherapy on hepatitis C virus(HCV)recurrence.METHODS:Articles from Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Gro...AIM:To assess the advantages and disadvantages of immunosuppression monotherapy after transplantation and the impact of monotherapy on hepatitis C virus(HCV)recurrence.METHODS:Articles from Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register,the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in The Cochrane Library,MEDLINE,EMBASE,and Science Citation Index Expanded,including non-English literature identified in these databases,were searched up to January 2013.We included randomized clinical trials comparing various immunosuppression monotherapy and prednisone-based immunosuppression combinations for liver transplantation.The modified Jadad scale score or the Oxford quality scoring system was used.Meta-analyses were performed with weighted random-effects models.RESULTS:A total of 14 randomized articles including 1814 patients were identified.Eight trials including1214 patients compared tacrolimus monotherapy(n=610)vs tacrolimus plus steroids or triple therapy regarding acute rejection and adverse events(n=604).Five trials,including 285 patients,compared tacrolimus monotherapy(n=143)vs tacrolimus plus steroids or triple therapy regarding hepatitis C recurrence(n=142).Four trials including 273 patients compared cyclosporine monotherapy(n=148)vs cyclosporine and steroids regarding acute rejection and adverse events(n=125).Two trials including 170 patients compared mycophenolate mofetil monotherapy(n=86)vs combinations regarding acute rejection(n=84).There were no significant differences in the acute rejection rates between tacrolimus monotherapy(RR=1.04,P=0.620),and cyclosporine monotherapy(RR=0.89,P=0.770).Mycophenolate mofetil monotherapy had a significant increase in the acute rejection rate(RR=4.50,P=0.027).Tacrolimus monotherapy had no significant effects on the recurrence of hepatitis C(RR=1.03,P=0.752).More cytomegalovirus infection(RR=0.48,P=0.000)and drug-related diabetes mellitus(RR=0.54,P=0.000)were observed in the immunosuppression combination therapy groups.CONCLUSION:Tacrolimus and cyclosporine monotherapy may be as effective as immunosuppression combination therapy.Mycophenolate mofetil monotherapy was not considerable.Tacrolimus monotherapy does not increase recurrence of HCV.展开更多
The ultimate goal of transplantation is the donor-specific immune tolerance, but at least in the first 15 to 20 years of this century, immunosuppressive agents are still the determinant of clinical outcome of transpla...The ultimate goal of transplantation is the donor-specific immune tolerance, but at least in the first 15 to 20 years of this century, immunosuppressive agents are still the determinant of clinical outcome of transplant recipients. Individualizing patient’s immunosuppression to optimize the balance between therapeutic efficacy and the occurrence of adverse events poses a great challenge to physicians. DATA SOURCES:The data in this article were taken mostly from MEDLINE (2000-2004), part of which were from the research of the authors. RESULTS:Individualized immunosuppression remains a problem because of the narrow therapeutic index and wide inter- and intra-patient variation of commonly-used im- munosuppressants. Recent progress in study of pharmaco-kinetics and pharmacodynamics improved the clinical outcome of transplant recipients. More importantly, the emergence of pharmacogenomics might provide a promising and complementary tool for traditional therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). CONCLUSIONS:Individualizing organ recipient’s immunosuppression to balance the therapeutic efficacy and the adverse events represents a great challenge to transplant clinicians. Pharmacogenomics shows great promise for an interesting and hopefully better future.展开更多
For kidney transplant recipients, immunosuppression commonly consists of combination treatment with a calcineurin inhibitor, an antiproliferative agent and a corticosteroid. Many medical centers use a sequential immun...For kidney transplant recipients, immunosuppression commonly consists of combination treatment with a calcineurin inhibitor, an antiproliferative agent and a corticosteroid. Many medical centers use a sequential immunosuppression regimen where an induction agent, either an anti-thymocyte globulin or interleukin-2 receptor antibody, is given at the time of transplantation to prevent early acute rejection which is then followed by a triple immunosuppressive maintenance regimen. Very low rejection rates have been achieved at many transplant centers using combinations of these agents in a variety of protocols. Yet, a large number of recipients suffer chronic allograft injury and adverse events associated with drug therapy. Regimens designed to limit or eliminate calcineurin inhibitors and/or corticosteroid use are actively being pursued. An ideal immunosuppressive regimen limits toxicity and prolongs the functional life of the graft. This article contains a critical analysis of clinical data on currently available immuno-suppressive strategies and an overview of therapeutic moieties in development.展开更多
We present a case of acute upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage in a patient with systemic vasculitis immunosuppressed on cyclophosphamide and prednisolone.The patient presented with a diffuse haemorrhagic oesophagitis ...We present a case of acute upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage in a patient with systemic vasculitis immunosuppressed on cyclophosphamide and prednisolone.The patient presented with a diffuse haemorrhagic oesophagitis and a non-specific duodenitis.Biopsies taken from the oesophagus and duodenum demonstrated infection with herpes simplex virus(HSV)and cytomegalovirus(CMV)respectively.Viral infection of the upper gastrointestinal tract is a recognised complication of immunosuppression and HSV is one of the most common pathogens.CMV on the other hand most commonly causes a colitis or less commonly oesophagitis.CMV enteritis is rare as is the synchronous infection with two viral agents in an immunocompromised patient having being described in a few case series only.Viral infection of the gastrointestinal tract in immunocompromised patients should be treated with systemic anti-viral medication and consideration to withdrawal of the immunosuppressive therapy if possible and appropriate.The authors highlight the need for a high suspicion of viral infection in immunosuppressed patients presenting with upper gastrointestinal bleeding.展开更多
After the first observation of the immunosuppressive effects of ultraviolet(UV) irradiation was reported in 1974, therapeutic modification of immune responses by UV irradiation began to be investigated in the context ...After the first observation of the immunosuppressive effects of ultraviolet(UV) irradiation was reported in 1974, therapeutic modification of immune responses by UV irradiation began to be investigated in the context immunization. UV-induced immunosuppression is via the action of regulatory T cells(Tregs). Antigen-specific Tregs were induced by high-dose UV-B irradiation before antigen immunization in many studies, as it was considered that functional alteration and/or modulation of antigen-presenting cells by UV irradiation was required for the induction of antigen-specific immunosuppression. However, it is also reported that UV irradiation after immunization induces antigen-specific Tregs. UV-induced Tregs are also dominantly transferable, with interleukin-10 being important for UV-induced immunosuppression. Currently, various possible mechanisms involving Treg phenotype and cytokine profile have been suggested. UV irradiation accompanied by alloantigen immunization induces alloantigen-specific transferable Tregs, which have potential therapeutic applications in the transplantation field. Here we review the current status of UV-induced antigen-specific immunosuppression on the 40th anniversary of its discovery.展开更多
The growing gap between demand and supply for kidney transplants has led to renewed interest in the use of expanded criteria donor(ECD) kidneys in an effort to increase the donor pool. Although most studies of ECD kid...The growing gap between demand and supply for kidney transplants has led to renewed interest in the use of expanded criteria donor(ECD) kidneys in an effort to increase the donor pool. Although most studies of ECD kidney transplantation confirm lowerallograft survival rates and, generally, worse outcomes than standard criteria donor kidneys, recipients of ECD kidneys generally have improved survival compared with wait-listed dialysis patients, thus encouraging the pursuit of this type of kidney transplantation. The relative benefits of transplantation using kidneys from ECDs are dependent on patient characteristics and the waiting time on dialysis. Because of the increased risk of poor graft function, calcineurin inhibitor(CNI)-induced nephrotoxicity, increased incidence of infections, cardiovascular risk, and malignancies, elderly recipients of an ECD kidney transplant are a special population that requires a tailored immunosuppressive regimen. Recipients of ECD kidneys often are excluded from transplant trials and, therefore, the optimal induction and maintenance immunosuppressive regimen for them is not known. Approaches are largely center specific and based upon expert opinion. Some data suggest that antithymocyte globulin might be the preferred induction agent for elderly recipients of ECD kidneys. Maintenance regimens that spare CNIs have been advocated, especially for older recipients of ECD kidneys. CNI-free regimens are not universally accepted due to occasionally high rejection rates. However, reduced CNI exposure and CNI-free regimens based on mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors have shown acceptable outcomes in appropriately selected ECD transplant recipients.展开更多
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease(COVID)is a new and highly contagious infectious disease caused by the coronavirus(COVID-19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2).There is limited data regarding the inciden...BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease(COVID)is a new and highly contagious infectious disease caused by the coronavirus(COVID-19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2).There is limited data regarding the incidence and management of COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients’post-transplantation.In the pre-COVID-19 era,these patients were already at an increased risk of developing opportunistic infections.These often manifested with atypical symptoms.CASE SUMMARY We report another case of uneventful COVID-19 pneumonia in a 58-year old male who was 18 mo’post liver transplantation.He received tacrolimus monotherapy since July 2019.The clinical manifestations included only epigastric pain radiating to the right hypochondrium,nausea and vomiting.He had no fevers,cough,shortness of breath,anosmia or dysgeusia even if the chest computed tomography scan revealed an extension of the multiple patchy ground-glass density shadows to the upper lobe of the left lung too.He was hospitalised and received a course of oral chloroquine(200 mg×3 per day)for a period of 10 d.Interestingly,the COVID 19 infection was uneventful though there were no modifications to his tacrolimus dosing.He was successfully discharged.We performed subsequent follow-up via telemedicine.CONCLUSION In light of the current pandemic,it is even more important to identify how the liver recipient’s patients present and are managed,especially for immunosuppression treatment.展开更多
Over the last 30 years there have been numerous worldwide investigators involved in cancer research. Billions of dollars have been spent on drug development and cancer research;however, with all of the new agents and ...Over the last 30 years there have been numerous worldwide investigators involved in cancer research. Billions of dollars have been spent on drug development and cancer research;however, with all of the new agents and modalities of treatment, we have honestly not significantly improved the overall survival of the Stage IV cancer patient. There is and will not be a magic bullet treatment, thus the extensive title of this paper. We are convinced that unless we use multiple innovative therapies in combination with conventional treatment, we will never truly defeat this disease. We have attempted to address this problem by presenting in detail some of these complex mechanisms involved in tumorigenesis, progression, escape, and metastasis. Most investigators have their own special area of interest, but if we are to conquer this scourge, we must develop an extensive, multifaceted, comprehensive approach. Hopefully this article will contribute to awareness and further insight into this very serious and complicated problem, so we can improve quality of life and improve the survival of the Stage IV cancer patient.展开更多
Immunosuppressive agents, such as thiopurines, methotrexate, and biologics, have revolutionized the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD). However, a number of case reports, case control studies and retrospecti...Immunosuppressive agents, such as thiopurines, methotrexate, and biologics, have revolutionized the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD). However, a number of case reports, case control studies and retrospective studies over the last decade have identified a concerning link between immunosuppression and lymphoproliferative disorders(LPDs), the oncological phenomenon whereby lymphocytes divide uncontrollably. These LPDs have been associated with Epstein-Barr virus(EBV) infection in which the virus provides the impetus for malignant transformation while immunosuppression hampers the immune system's ability to detect and clear these malignant cells. As such, the use of immunosuppressive agents may come at the cost of increased risk of developing LPD. While little is known about the LPD risk in IBD, more is known about immunosuppression in the post-transplantation setting and the development of EBV associated posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorders(PTLD). In review of the PTLD literature, evidence is available to demonstrate that certain immune suppressants such as cyclosporine and T-lymphocyte modulators in particular are associated with an increased risk of PTLD development. As well, high doses of immunosuppressive agents and multiple immunosuppressive agent use are also linked to increased PTLD development. Here,we discuss these findings in context of IBD and what future studies can be taken to understand and reduce the risk of EBV-associated LPD development from immunosuppression use in IBD.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82222038,82020108021 and 82260372)the Chongqing Special Project for Academicians(cstc2020yszx-jcyjX0004)the Chongqing Outstanding Youth Foundation and Science Foundation for Outstanding Youth of the Army Medical Centre(2019CXJSB004)。
文摘Sepsis is a common complication of combat injuries and trauma,and is defined as a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection.It is also one of the significant causes of death and increased health care costs in modern intensive care units.The use of antibiotics,fluid resuscitation,and organ support therapy have limited prognostic impact in patients with sepsis.Although its pathophysiology remains elusive,immunosuppression is now recognized as one of the major causes of septic death.Sepsis-induced immunosuppression is resulted from disruption of immune homeostasis.It is characterized by the release of antiinflammatory cytokines,abnormal death of immune effector cells,hyperproliferation of immune suppressor cells,and expression of immune checkpoints.By targeting immunosuppression,especially with immune checkpoint inhibitors,preclinical studies have demonstrated the reversal of immunocyte dysfunctions and established host resistance.Here,we comprehensively discuss recent findings on the mechanisms,regulation and biomarkers of sepsis-induced immunosuppression and highlight their implications for developing effective strategies to treat patients with septic shock.
基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China,Nos.82172147(to YL),81571880(to YL),81373147(to YL),30901555(to JZ),30972870(to YL)the Natural Science Foundation of Hunan Province,Nos.2021JJ30900,2016JJ2157(both to YL)。
文摘Stroke-induced immunosuppression is a process that leads to peripheral suppression of the immune system after a stroke and belongs to the central nervous system injury-induced immunosuppressive syndrome.Stroke-induced immunosuppression leads to increased susceptibility to post-stroke infections,such as urinary tract infections and stroke-associated pneumonia,worsening prognosis.Molecular chaperones are a large class of proteins that are able to maintain proteostasis by directing the folding of nascent polypeptide chains,refolding misfolded proteins,and targeting misfolded proteins for degradation.Various molecular chaperones have been shown to play roles in stroke-induced immunosuppression by modulating the activity of other molecular chaperones,cochaperones,and their associated pathways.This review summarizes the role of molecular chaperones in stroke-induced immunosuppression and discusses new approaches to restore host immune defense after stroke.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81730057,82130062)the Key Project of Military Medical Innovation Program of Chinese PLA(18CXZ026)+1 种基金the Guangdong Clinical Research Center for Critical Care Medicine(2020B1111170005)the Sun Yat?sen University Clinical Research Program 5010(2019002)。
文摘Emerged evidence has indicated that immunosuppression is involved in the occurrence and development of sepsis.To provide clinical practice recommendations on the immune function in sepsis,an expert consensus focusing on the monitoring and treatment of sepsis-induced immunosuppression was developed.Literature related to the immune monitoring and treatment of sepsis were retrieved from PubMed,Web of Science,and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure to design items and expert opinions were collected through an online questionnaire.Then,the Delphi method was used to form consensus opinions,and RAND appropriateness method was developed to provide consistency evaluation and recommendation levels for consensus opinions.This consensus achieved satisfactory results through two rounds of questionnaire survey,with 2 statements rated as perfect consistency,13 as very good consistency,and 9 as good consistency.After summarizing the results,a total of 14 strong recommended opinions,8 weak recommended opinions and 2 non-recommended opinions were produced.Finally,a face-to-face discussion of the consensus opinions was performed through an online meeting,and all judges unanimously agreed on the content of this consensus.In summary,this expert consensus provides a preliminary guidance for the monitoring and treatment of immunosuppression in patients with sepsis.
文摘The optimal level of immunosuppression in solid organ transplantation,in particular for the liver,is a delicate balance between the benefit of preventing rejection and the adverse side effects of immunosuppression. There is uncertainty about when this level is achieved in any individual recipient. Immunosuppression regimens vary between individual centers and changes with time asnew agents and data are available. Presently concerns about the adverse side effects of calcineurin inhibitor,the main class of immunosuppressive agents used in liver transplantation(LT),has led to consideration of the use of antibody induction therapies for patients at higher risk of developing adverse side effects. The longevity of the transplanted organ is potentially improved by better management of rejection episodes and special consideration for tailoring of immunosuppression to the individual with viral hepatitis C,hepatocellular carcinoma or pregnancy. This review provides an overview of the current strategies for post LT immunosuppression and discusses modifications to consider for special patient populations.
文摘Acute pancreatitis(AP) is a common disease,which usually exists in its mild form.However,in a fifth of cases,the disease is severe,with local pancreatic complications or systemic organ dysfunction or both.Because the development of organ failure is the major cause of death in AP,early identification of patients likely to develop organ failure is important.AP is initiated by intracellular activation of pancreatic proenzymes and autodigestion of the pancreas.Destruction of the pancreatic parenchyma first induces an inflammatory reaction locally,but may lead to overwhelming systemic production of inflammatory mediators and early organ failure.Concomitantly,anti-inflammatory cytokines and specific cytokine inhibitors are produced.This anti-inflammatory reaction may overcompensate and inhibit the immune response,rendering the host at risk of systemic infection.At present,there is no specific treatment for AP.Increased understanding of the pathogenesis of systemic inflammation and development of organ dysfunction may provide us with drugs to ameliorate physiological disturbances.
文摘In patients with inflammatory bowel disease(IBD), chronic inflammation is a major risk factor for the development of gastrointestinal malignancies. The pathogenesis of colitis-associated cancer is distinct from sporadic colorectal carcinoma and the critical molecular mechanisms underlying this process have yet to be elucidated. Patients with IBD have also been shown to be at increased risk of developing extra-intestinal malignancies. Medical therapies that diminish the mucosal inflammatory response represent the foundation of treatment in IBD, and recent evidence supports their introduction earlier in the disease course. However, therapies that alter the immune system, often used for long durations, may also promote carcinogenesis. As the population of patients with IBD grows older, with longer duration of chronic inflammation and longer exposure to immunosuppression, there is an increasing risk of cancer development. Many of these patients will require cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, and surgery. Many patients will require further treatment for their IBD. This review seeks to explore the characteristics and risks of cancer in patients with IBD, and to evaluate the limited data on patients with IBD and cancer, including management of IBD after a diagnosis of cancer, the effects of cancer treatment on IBD, and the effect of IBD and medications for IBD on cancer outcomes.
基金Supported by The Instituto Nacional de Salud PúblicaMexicoby the grant from CONACYT-FOSISS SALUD2008-C01-494 87701,Mexico
文摘Cervical cancer is a worldwide disease that constitutes a significant public health problem, especially in developing countries, not only due to its high incidence but also because the most affected population comprises women who belong to marginalized socio-economic classes. Clinical and molecular research has identified immunological impairment in squamous intraepithelial cervical lesions and cervical cancer patients. Human Papillomavirus(HPV) has several mechanisms for avoiding the immune system: it down-regulates the expression of interferon and upregulates interleukin(IL)-10and transforming growth factor(TGF)-β1 to produce a local immunosuppressive environment, which, along with altered tumor surface antigens, forms an immunosuppressive network that inhibits the antitumor immune response. In this review we analyzed the available data on several deregulated cellular immune functions in patients with NIC Ⅰ, NIC Ⅱ and NIC Ⅲ and cervical cancer. The effects of immunosuppressive cytokines on innate immune response, T-cell activation and cellular factors that promote tumor cell proliferation in cervical cancer patients are summarized. We discuss the functional consequences of HPV E2, E6, and E7 protein interactions with IL-10 and TGF-β1 promoters in the induction of these cytokines and postulate its effect on the cellular immune response in squamous intraepithelial cervical lesions and cervical cancer patients. This review provides a comprehensive picture of the immunological functions of IL-10 and TGF-β1 in response to HPV in humans.
文摘AIM: To present the characteristics and the course of a series of anti- hepatitis B virus core antibody (HBc) antibody positive patients, who experienced hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation after immunosuppression. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated in our tertiary centers the medical records of hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg) negative patients who suffered from HBV reactivation after chemotherapy or immunosuppression during a 3-year period (2009-2011). Accordingly, the clinical, laboratory and virological characteristics of 10 anti-HBc (+) anti-HBs (-)/HBsAg (-) and 4 anti-HBc (+)/antiHBs (+)/HBsAg (-) patients, who developed HBV reactivation after the initiation of chemotherapy or immunosuppressive treatment were analyzed. Quantitative determination of HBV DNA during reactivation was performed in all cases by a quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction kit (COBAS Taqman HBV Test; cut-off of detection: 6 IU/mL). RESULTS: Twelve out of 14 patients were males; median age 74.5 years. In 71.4% of them the primary diagnosis was hematologic malignancy; 78.6% had received rituximab (R) as part of the immunosuppressive regimen. The median time from last chemotherapy schedule till HBV reactivation for 10 out of 11 patients who received R was 3 (range 2-17) mo. Three patients (21.4%) deteriorated, manifesting ascites and hepatic encephalopathy and 2 (14.3%) of them died due to liver failure. CONCLUSION: HBsAg-negative anti-HBc antibody positive patients can develop HBV reactivation even 2 years after stopping immunosuppression, whereas prompt antiviral treatment on diagnosis of reactivation can be lifesaving.
文摘BACKGROUND Immunosuppression has undoubtedly raised the overall positive outcomes in the post-operative management of solid organ transplantation. However, long-term exposure to immunosuppression is associated with critical systemic morbidities. De novo malignancies following orthotopic liver transplants (OLTs) are a serious threat in pediatric and adult transplant individuals. Data from different experiences were reported and compared to assess the connection between immunosuppression and de novo malignancies in liver transplant patients. AIM To study the role of immunosuppression on the incidence of de novo malignancies in liver transplant recipients. METHODS A systematic literature examination about de novo malignancies and immunosuppression weaning in adult and pediatric OLT recipients was described in the present review. Worldwide data were collected from highly qualified institutions performing OLTs. Patient follow-up, immunosuppression discontinuation and incidence of de novo malignancies were reported. Likewise, the review assesses the differences in adult and pediatric recipients by describing the adopted immunosuppression regimens and the different type of diagnosed solid and blood malignancy.RESULTS Emerging evidence suggests that the liver is an immunologically privileged organ able to support immunosuppression discontinuation in carefully selected recipients. Malignancies are often detected in liver transplant patients undergoing daily immunosuppression regimens. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative diseases and skin tumors are the most detected de novo malignancies in the pediatric and adult OLT population, respectively. To date, immunosuppression withdrawal has been achieved in up to 40% and 60% of well-selected adult and pediatric recipients, respectively. In both populations, a clear benefit of immunosuppression weaning protocols on de novo malignancies is difficult to ascertain because data have not been specified in most of the clinical experiences. CONCLUSION The selected populations of tolerant pediatric and adult liver transplant recipients greatly benefit from immunosuppression weaning. There is still no strong clinical evidence on the usefulness of immunosuppression withdrawal in OLT recipients on malignancies. An interesting focus is represented by the complete reconstitution of the immunological pathways that could help in decreasing the incidence of de novo malignancies and may also help in treating liver transplant patients suffering from cancer.
文摘Liver transplantation has been the treatment of choice for end-stage liver disease since 1983.Cancer has emerged as a major long-term cause of death for liver transplant recipients.Many retrospective studies that have explored standardized incidence ratio have reported increased rates of solid organ cancers postliver transplantation;some have also studied risk factors.Liver transplantation results in a two to five-fold mean increase in the rate of solid organ cancers.Risk of head and neck,lung,esophageal,cervical cancers and Kaposi’s sarcoma is high,but risk of colorectal cancer is not clearly demonstrated.There appears to be no excess risk of developing breast or prostate cancer.Environmental risk factors such as viral infection and tobacco consumption,and personal risk factors such as obesity play a key role,but recent data also implicate the role of calcineurin inhibitors,whose cumulative and dose-dependent effects on cell metabolism might play a direct role in oncogenesis.In this paper,we review the results of studies assessing the incidence of non-skin solid tumors in order to understand the mechanisms underlying solid cancers in post-liver transplant patients and,ultimately,discuss how to prevent these cancers.Immunosuppressive protocol changes,including a calcineurin inhibitor-free regimen,combined with dietary guidelines and smoking cessation,are theoretically the best preventive measures.
文摘Immunosuppression(IS) is often withdrawn in patients with end stage renal disease secondary to a failed renal allograft, and this can lead to an accelerated loss of residual renal function(RRF). As maintenance of RRF appears to provide a survival benefit to peritoneal dialysis(PD) patients, it is not clear whether this benefit of maintaining RRF in failed allograft patients returning to PD outweigh the risks of maintaining IS. A 49 year-old Caucasian male developed progressive allograft failure nine years after living-donor renal transplantation. Hemodialysis was initiated via tunneled dialysis catheter(TDC) and IS was gradually withdrawn. Two weeksafter IS withdrawal he developed a febrile illness, which necessitate removal of the TDC and conversion to PD. He was maintained on small dose of tacrolimus(1 mg/d) and prednisone(5 mg/d). Currently(1 year later) he is doing exceedingly well on cycler-assisted PD. Residual urine output ranges between 600-1200 m L/d. Total weekly Kt/V achieved 1.82. RRF remained well preserved in this patient with failed renal allograft with minimal immunosuppressive therapy. This strategy will need further study in well-defined cohorts of PD patients with failed allografts and residual RRF to determine efficacy and safety.
文摘AIM:To assess the advantages and disadvantages of immunosuppression monotherapy after transplantation and the impact of monotherapy on hepatitis C virus(HCV)recurrence.METHODS:Articles from Cochrane Hepato-Biliary Group Controlled Trials Register,the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in The Cochrane Library,MEDLINE,EMBASE,and Science Citation Index Expanded,including non-English literature identified in these databases,were searched up to January 2013.We included randomized clinical trials comparing various immunosuppression monotherapy and prednisone-based immunosuppression combinations for liver transplantation.The modified Jadad scale score or the Oxford quality scoring system was used.Meta-analyses were performed with weighted random-effects models.RESULTS:A total of 14 randomized articles including 1814 patients were identified.Eight trials including1214 patients compared tacrolimus monotherapy(n=610)vs tacrolimus plus steroids or triple therapy regarding acute rejection and adverse events(n=604).Five trials,including 285 patients,compared tacrolimus monotherapy(n=143)vs tacrolimus plus steroids or triple therapy regarding hepatitis C recurrence(n=142).Four trials including 273 patients compared cyclosporine monotherapy(n=148)vs cyclosporine and steroids regarding acute rejection and adverse events(n=125).Two trials including 170 patients compared mycophenolate mofetil monotherapy(n=86)vs combinations regarding acute rejection(n=84).There were no significant differences in the acute rejection rates between tacrolimus monotherapy(RR=1.04,P=0.620),and cyclosporine monotherapy(RR=0.89,P=0.770).Mycophenolate mofetil monotherapy had a significant increase in the acute rejection rate(RR=4.50,P=0.027).Tacrolimus monotherapy had no significant effects on the recurrence of hepatitis C(RR=1.03,P=0.752).More cytomegalovirus infection(RR=0.48,P=0.000)and drug-related diabetes mellitus(RR=0.54,P=0.000)were observed in the immunosuppression combination therapy groups.CONCLUSION:Tacrolimus and cyclosporine monotherapy may be as effective as immunosuppression combination therapy.Mycophenolate mofetil monotherapy was not considerable.Tacrolimus monotherapy does not increase recurrence of HCV.
文摘The ultimate goal of transplantation is the donor-specific immune tolerance, but at least in the first 15 to 20 years of this century, immunosuppressive agents are still the determinant of clinical outcome of transplant recipients. Individualizing patient’s immunosuppression to optimize the balance between therapeutic efficacy and the occurrence of adverse events poses a great challenge to physicians. DATA SOURCES:The data in this article were taken mostly from MEDLINE (2000-2004), part of which were from the research of the authors. RESULTS:Individualized immunosuppression remains a problem because of the narrow therapeutic index and wide inter- and intra-patient variation of commonly-used im- munosuppressants. Recent progress in study of pharmaco-kinetics and pharmacodynamics improved the clinical outcome of transplant recipients. More importantly, the emergence of pharmacogenomics might provide a promising and complementary tool for traditional therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). CONCLUSIONS:Individualizing organ recipient’s immunosuppression to balance the therapeutic efficacy and the adverse events represents a great challenge to transplant clinicians. Pharmacogenomics shows great promise for an interesting and hopefully better future.
文摘For kidney transplant recipients, immunosuppression commonly consists of combination treatment with a calcineurin inhibitor, an antiproliferative agent and a corticosteroid. Many medical centers use a sequential immunosuppression regimen where an induction agent, either an anti-thymocyte globulin or interleukin-2 receptor antibody, is given at the time of transplantation to prevent early acute rejection which is then followed by a triple immunosuppressive maintenance regimen. Very low rejection rates have been achieved at many transplant centers using combinations of these agents in a variety of protocols. Yet, a large number of recipients suffer chronic allograft injury and adverse events associated with drug therapy. Regimens designed to limit or eliminate calcineurin inhibitors and/or corticosteroid use are actively being pursued. An ideal immunosuppressive regimen limits toxicity and prolongs the functional life of the graft. This article contains a critical analysis of clinical data on currently available immuno-suppressive strategies and an overview of therapeutic moieties in development.
文摘We present a case of acute upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage in a patient with systemic vasculitis immunosuppressed on cyclophosphamide and prednisolone.The patient presented with a diffuse haemorrhagic oesophagitis and a non-specific duodenitis.Biopsies taken from the oesophagus and duodenum demonstrated infection with herpes simplex virus(HSV)and cytomegalovirus(CMV)respectively.Viral infection of the upper gastrointestinal tract is a recognised complication of immunosuppression and HSV is one of the most common pathogens.CMV on the other hand most commonly causes a colitis or less commonly oesophagitis.CMV enteritis is rare as is the synchronous infection with two viral agents in an immunocompromised patient having being described in a few case series only.Viral infection of the gastrointestinal tract in immunocompromised patients should be treated with systemic anti-viral medication and consideration to withdrawal of the immunosuppressive therapy if possible and appropriate.The authors highlight the need for a high suspicion of viral infection in immunosuppressed patients presenting with upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
文摘After the first observation of the immunosuppressive effects of ultraviolet(UV) irradiation was reported in 1974, therapeutic modification of immune responses by UV irradiation began to be investigated in the context immunization. UV-induced immunosuppression is via the action of regulatory T cells(Tregs). Antigen-specific Tregs were induced by high-dose UV-B irradiation before antigen immunization in many studies, as it was considered that functional alteration and/or modulation of antigen-presenting cells by UV irradiation was required for the induction of antigen-specific immunosuppression. However, it is also reported that UV irradiation after immunization induces antigen-specific Tregs. UV-induced Tregs are also dominantly transferable, with interleukin-10 being important for UV-induced immunosuppression. Currently, various possible mechanisms involving Treg phenotype and cytokine profile have been suggested. UV irradiation accompanied by alloantigen immunization induces alloantigen-specific transferable Tregs, which have potential therapeutic applications in the transplantation field. Here we review the current status of UV-induced antigen-specific immunosuppression on the 40th anniversary of its discovery.
文摘The growing gap between demand and supply for kidney transplants has led to renewed interest in the use of expanded criteria donor(ECD) kidneys in an effort to increase the donor pool. Although most studies of ECD kidney transplantation confirm lowerallograft survival rates and, generally, worse outcomes than standard criteria donor kidneys, recipients of ECD kidneys generally have improved survival compared with wait-listed dialysis patients, thus encouraging the pursuit of this type of kidney transplantation. The relative benefits of transplantation using kidneys from ECDs are dependent on patient characteristics and the waiting time on dialysis. Because of the increased risk of poor graft function, calcineurin inhibitor(CNI)-induced nephrotoxicity, increased incidence of infections, cardiovascular risk, and malignancies, elderly recipients of an ECD kidney transplant are a special population that requires a tailored immunosuppressive regimen. Recipients of ECD kidneys often are excluded from transplant trials and, therefore, the optimal induction and maintenance immunosuppressive regimen for them is not known. Approaches are largely center specific and based upon expert opinion. Some data suggest that antithymocyte globulin might be the preferred induction agent for elderly recipients of ECD kidneys. Maintenance regimens that spare CNIs have been advocated, especially for older recipients of ECD kidneys. CNI-free regimens are not universally accepted due to occasionally high rejection rates. However, reduced CNI exposure and CNI-free regimens based on mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors have shown acceptable outcomes in appropriately selected ECD transplant recipients.
文摘BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease(COVID)is a new and highly contagious infectious disease caused by the coronavirus(COVID-19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2).There is limited data regarding the incidence and management of COVID-19 in immunocompromised patients’post-transplantation.In the pre-COVID-19 era,these patients were already at an increased risk of developing opportunistic infections.These often manifested with atypical symptoms.CASE SUMMARY We report another case of uneventful COVID-19 pneumonia in a 58-year old male who was 18 mo’post liver transplantation.He received tacrolimus monotherapy since July 2019.The clinical manifestations included only epigastric pain radiating to the right hypochondrium,nausea and vomiting.He had no fevers,cough,shortness of breath,anosmia or dysgeusia even if the chest computed tomography scan revealed an extension of the multiple patchy ground-glass density shadows to the upper lobe of the left lung too.He was hospitalised and received a course of oral chloroquine(200 mg×3 per day)for a period of 10 d.Interestingly,the COVID 19 infection was uneventful though there were no modifications to his tacrolimus dosing.He was successfully discharged.We performed subsequent follow-up via telemedicine.CONCLUSION In light of the current pandemic,it is even more important to identify how the liver recipient’s patients present and are managed,especially for immunosuppression treatment.
文摘Over the last 30 years there have been numerous worldwide investigators involved in cancer research. Billions of dollars have been spent on drug development and cancer research;however, with all of the new agents and modalities of treatment, we have honestly not significantly improved the overall survival of the Stage IV cancer patient. There is and will not be a magic bullet treatment, thus the extensive title of this paper. We are convinced that unless we use multiple innovative therapies in combination with conventional treatment, we will never truly defeat this disease. We have attempted to address this problem by presenting in detail some of these complex mechanisms involved in tumorigenesis, progression, escape, and metastasis. Most investigators have their own special area of interest, but if we are to conquer this scourge, we must develop an extensive, multifaceted, comprehensive approach. Hopefully this article will contribute to awareness and further insight into this very serious and complicated problem, so we can improve quality of life and improve the survival of the Stage IV cancer patient.
文摘Immunosuppressive agents, such as thiopurines, methotrexate, and biologics, have revolutionized the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease(IBD). However, a number of case reports, case control studies and retrospective studies over the last decade have identified a concerning link between immunosuppression and lymphoproliferative disorders(LPDs), the oncological phenomenon whereby lymphocytes divide uncontrollably. These LPDs have been associated with Epstein-Barr virus(EBV) infection in which the virus provides the impetus for malignant transformation while immunosuppression hampers the immune system's ability to detect and clear these malignant cells. As such, the use of immunosuppressive agents may come at the cost of increased risk of developing LPD. While little is known about the LPD risk in IBD, more is known about immunosuppression in the post-transplantation setting and the development of EBV associated posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorders(PTLD). In review of the PTLD literature, evidence is available to demonstrate that certain immune suppressants such as cyclosporine and T-lymphocyte modulators in particular are associated with an increased risk of PTLD development. As well, high doses of immunosuppressive agents and multiple immunosuppressive agent use are also linked to increased PTLD development. Here,we discuss these findings in context of IBD and what future studies can be taken to understand and reduce the risk of EBV-associated LPD development from immunosuppression use in IBD.
