The potential role of cytokines in the pathogenesis of Epstein-Barr virus associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease.

Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) is a complication of Epstein-Barr virus infection occurring in immunosuppressed transplant recipients. Non-clonal lesions with a polymorphous histology have the potential of regressing, if the degree of immunosuppression is reduced, thereby giving the immune system a chance to recuperate. In contrast, clonal tumors with a monomorphous histology portend a bad clinical outcome. This review summarizes evidence that the biological behavior of PTLD may be predicated on intercellular interactions involving multiple cytokines. With further investigations to clarify the nature of these interactions, it should be possible to design rational strategies for the cytokine therapy of human PTLD.