From the Guidelines
Patients with autoimmune diseases who have abnormalities in C3 complement and B cells (including CD8c cells) are at increased risk for developing chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a type of B-cell lymphoma. This association is supported by the fact that CLL is often accompanied by autoimmune disorders, such as autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) and autoimmune thrombocytopenia (ITP), which occur in approximately 5%–7% of CLL patients 1. The development of autoimmune cytopenias in CLL is thought to be caused by nonmalignant B lymphocytes that produce polyclonal high-affinity immunoglobulin G (IgG) via a T-cell-mediated mechanism, with CLL cells exerting an undefined influence on nonmalignant lymphocytes, both T and B cells, leading to autoimmunity 1. Key factors to consider in the association between autoimmune diseases and CLL include:
- The role of the complement system, particularly C3, in immune surveillance and clearance of abnormal cells
- The potential for immunosuppressive medications to increase cancer risk
- The importance of regular monitoring with complete blood counts and clinical examinations to detect early signs of lymphoproliferative disorders, especially in patients with known complement abnormalities or B-cell dysregulation. Given the complexity of the relationship between autoimmune diseases and CLL, it is essential to prioritize the management of autoimmune disorders and monitor for potential lymphoproliferative complications, as outlined in guidelines such as those from the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) 1.
From the Research
Autoimmune Disease and Associated Cancers
- Autoimmune disorders are associated with an increased risk of developing certain types of cancers, particularly lymphomas 2.
- The exact mechanisms of this association are not fully understood, but it is thought to involve the interplay of various immune cells, including B cells and T cells, as well as the production of autoantibodies 3, 4.
C3 and 8c Cell Subtypes in Leukocytes
- There is limited information available on the specific subtypes of leukocytes, including C3 and 8c cells, and their association with autoimmune diseases and cancer.
- However, it is known that plasma cells, which are a type of immune cell, play a key role in the production of autoantibodies in autoimmune diseases 4.
- The complement system, which includes C3, also plays a role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and may be involved in the development of cancer 5.
Associated Cancers
- Lymphomas are a type of cancer that is commonly associated with autoimmune diseases 2.
- Other types of cancer, such as those affecting the skin, lungs, and liver, may also be associated with autoimmune diseases, although the exact relationships are not fully understood 6.
- Patients with pre-existing autoimmune diseases may be at increased risk of developing immune-related adverse events when treated with checkpoint inhibitors for cancer 6.