Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma Secondary to Rheumatoid Artritis: Case Report

Lymphoid malignancies are a heterogeneous group of neoplasms originating from B- and T-lymphocytes with an unexplained etiology. Several autoimmune conditions, especially Sjo - gren syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are associated with lymphoma. Immunosuppressive agents like methotrexate may cause Epstein-Barr virus reactivation that can lead to development of lymphoma. The risk of lymphoma, especially Hodgkin lymphoma, is increased up to 2-3 times in RA patients compared to normal population. The cause of increased risk is independent from the immunosuppressive medication. We report here an unusual case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in a patient with RA receiving methotrexate treatment, after obtaining the approval of the informed consent of the patient.