[Burkitt's lymphoma in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with immunosuppressive drugs. A case report].

INTRODUCTION

Neoplasia and lymphoproliferative disorders are sometimes reported in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, the pathophysiological link between lymphoma and SLE is still a matter of debate. We report a new case of Burkitt's lymphoma occurring in a patient treated with immunosuppressive drugs for SLE.

CASE REPORT: A 38-year-old woman with SLE treated for 10 years with immunosuppressive drugs was admitted for the rapid onset of multiple neuritis with cranial nerves palsy, without extra-neurological involvement. The cerebrospinal fluid was normal. A bone marrow biopsy revealed Burkitt's lymphoma.

CONCLUSION

This is the third case reported of Burkitt's lymphoma occurring in SLE. Here we discuss the data of the literature and the possible pathophysiological links between Burkitt's lymphoma and SLE.