Cytokine mRNA profiles in Epstein-Barr virus-associated post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders

Cytokine mRNA patterns were analyzed in 11 post-transplant lymphoproliferat ive disorder (PTLD) specimens using qualitative reverse-transcriptase polym erase chain reaction (RT-PCR). In each case, a pattern of IL2(-), IFN gamma (-), IL4(+), IL10(+) was seen. A similar pattern was observed in a spleen s ample from I patient with contemporaneous PTLD elsewhere. Semiquantitative RT-PCR for cytokine message was performed using RNA from b ronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens obtained from 2 patients with pulmona ry PTLD. In both cases, IL4 message predominated. Reduction of message coin cided with resolution of the tumors. The pattern differed from that seen in 1 patient with acute pulmonary rejection, in which RT-PCR of BAL cells sho wed predominance of IL6 and IFN gamma. We conclude that at least some PTLDs exist within a T-helper cell type 2 (T h2)-like cytokine microenvironment. The presence of a similar mRNA pattern in an extratumoral specimen at the time of PTLD suggests that it may reflec t a systemic phenomenon. Disappearance of this pattern following PTLD resol ution indicates its dynamic nature and is consistent with the hypothesis th at specific cytokines contribute to the development of PTLDs.