Oral plasmablastic lymphoma in HIV-infected individuals-A systematic review

Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is an uncommon and aggressive large B-cell lymphoma that affects immunocompromised individuals. The orofacial region is the most commonly affected site. The primary aim of the article was to review systematically, the cases of oral PBL and consolidate their clinic-pathological, and molecular characteristics, rehabilitation, and outcome in Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals. An electronic literature search was done and 28 articles with a total of 32 cases, of which 27 patients were adults and 5 were pediatrics were included in the review based on the inclusion criteria. Oral PBL was found to be common in HIV-affected males, frequently involving the gingiva. Histopathology revealed monomorphic neoplastic atypical cells with plasmablastic features and cohesive growth patterns. Immunohistochemistry revealed strong positivity for CD138, and CD 79a. The prognosis of oral PBL in patients with HIV was poor in both adult and pediatric age groups, however, pediatric age groups showed a worse prognosis. Hence, it is crucial to correctly diagnose oral PBL, surgically treat the patients along with chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, and start ART in HIV-positive individuals.