Categories: GI Cancers, IBD

November 2009 Volume 5, Issue 11

Corey A. Siegel, MD, MS

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The risk of lymphoma associated with inflammatory bowel disease is a cause of great anxiety for patients, their families, and their providers. Trepidation regarding the use of immunomodulators and anti-tumor necrosis factor agents, due to their possible association with lymphoma, may influence treatment decisions, compliance with prescribed medications, and, possibly, long-term outcomes if appropriate medical therapy is avoided. Lymphoma is a difficult topic to discuss with patients due to uncertainty regarding the absolute risk. A general message to convey to patients is that there is likely an increased risk of lymphoma associated with the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease but that the substantial benefit of these therapies outweighs the very small risk incurred. This review aims to explain current data regarding the risk of lymphoma associated with inflammatory bowel disease itself and the immune suppressant therapy used for its treatment.