A Description of the Type, Frequency and Severity of Infections Among Sixteen Patients Treated for T-Cell Lymphoma

BACKGROUND: Infections are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in T-cell lymphomas. Factors contributing to increased risk of infection include the nature of the underlying disease, as well as treatment-associated immunosuppression. Currently there are few reports describing the types of infections, including preventable infections, in this cohort of patients. The aim of the study was to identify the type, frequency and severity of infection in patients with T-cell lymphoma undergoing treatment. METHODS: A case series was performed on all patients with T-cell lymphoma over a 5-year period from 2011 to 2016 at a tertiary Australian hospital. Information was collected from medical record review regarding patient demographics, lymphoma treatment and outcomes, and infectious outcomes. Severe infections were recorded, defined as infection requiring hospitalization. RESULTS: Sixteen patients were identified with a diagnosis of T-cell lymphoma who received treatment at our institution. There were 42 discrete episodes of severe infections in total. Severe infections occurred in 81% of patients, with over 40% having more than one infection. The median length of hospital stay was 13 days, 33% required intensive care admission and 14% of infectious episodes resulted in death. Only 50% of infectious episodes were microbiologically proven, with the most common etiology being bacterial. The most commonly isolated organism overall was Staphylococcus aureus, with the most common source of infection being skin and soft tissue. There was one case of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and five cases (12%) of invasive fungal infection. The highest rates of infection occurred during progressive disease. Rates of prophylaxis were highest with antiviral agents, and comparatively lower with antibacterial and antifungal agents. CONCLUSION: Infections are frequent, opportunistic and severe in patients with T-cell lymphoma. Our data suggests that fungal prophylaxis may be indicated with T-cell lymphoma.