What are post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders?

B cell proliferation: Ptld for short are benign and malignant inflammations caused by proliferating lymphocytes (usually b cells) , in many cases it is initialed by infection with the epstein barr virus. If they progress and become monoclonal, they act and are treated like non-hodgkin's lymphomas. Reducing immunosuppression is the best first approach. Chemotherapy may be required.

PTLD: Ptld is a transplant specific complication which involves proliferation of lymph cells. Most often presents as a b cell lymphoma and often related to ebv virus. This is often an immune responsive tumour that may respond to reduction in immunosuppression or, if cd20 + (a b cell marker) may respond to antibody therapy with Rituximab (anti cd20). Sometimes needs chemotherapy such as chop.

Tumor from Infection: Immunosuppression lowers your immune defenses. One specific infection - the epstein barr virus can be a problem because it can stimulate 1 type of white blood cells, the b lymphocytes to grow uncontrollably. If this happens, treatment may include lowering (or stopping) immunosuppression, anti-viral medication and even chemotherapy.