HIV-associated lymphoma sub-type distribution, immunophenotypes and survival in an urban clinic population

HIV-infected patients have an increased risk for both Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas. A retrospective cohort of all HIV-infected patients diagnosed with lymphoma in urban clinics from 2000-2013 was evaluated to characterize the distribution and determine effects of sub-type and immunophenotype on survival. Of 160 cases identified, 131 (82%) had complete information and were analyzed. The most common sub-types were diffuse large B cell (41%), Burkitt (21%) and Hodgkin lymphoma (18%). Advanced (78% stage III/IV) and extranodal disease (82%) at presentation were common. CD20 was the most commonly expressed immunophenotypic marker (89%). Overall mortality rate was high (26.1 per 100 person-years). Lower mortality was noted in CD10 + and CD20 + lymphomas, but differences were not statistically significant. After adjustment, low CD4 count (≤ 200) at diagnosis was associated with higher mortality (adjusted hazard ration (AHR) = 1.75; 95% CI = 1.00-3.61). Mortality in this cohort of patients with HIV-associated lymphomas was high and exceeds that from published data from the general population.