ISSN:
1569-8041
Keywords:
EBER-1
;
EBNA3C
;
Epstein-Barr virus
;
Hodgkin's disease
;
LMP-1
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract Background:Though Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) has been linkedto classical Hodgkin's disease (cHD), only a proportion of cHD cases showEBV-association. While there has been evidence to suggest a crucial role forEBV in the early phase of cHD evolution, we are unclear whether continuedpresence of EBV is essential for the maintenance of the neoplasm. We haveaddressed this issue by investigating the EBV-association in paired samplesof cHD obtained at presentation and relapse. Materials and methods:We have analysed lymph node biopsy samplesfrom 23 cases of cHD at presentation and relapse. In situ hybridization with EBER-1 probe and immunostaining with anti latentmembrane protein-1 (LMP-1) antibody was performed on the paraffin sections.PCR for EBNA 3C gene was performed for EBV subtype analysis on the DNAextracted from paraffin sections. Results:EBV-association was documented in both the presentationand relapse samples of 14 cases. One case showed loss of EBV-association atrelapse. PCR analysable DNA was obtained from both presentation and relapsesamples in four of the EBV-associated cases. The EBNA 3C amplimer correspondedto type A strain of EBV in all the samples. Conclusion:Loss of EBV-association between presentation andrelapse seen in one case implies a hit and run mechanism in EBV-inducedlymphomagenesis. Though EBV may be essential early in the evolution of cHD,it may not be required for maintenance of the neoplastic clone. Our study alsobrings out a speculation that a proportion of EBV-negative cHD could representloss of EBV in the tumour prior to clinical presentation. Alternatively, anunidentified lymphotropic virus other than EBV might play a pathogenetic rolein EBV-negative cHD.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1023/A:1008363805242
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