Neoplastic diseases and rheumatic syndromes

Coexistence of rheumatic and neoplastic diseases may take different forms. Rheumatic paraneoplastic syndromes, including systemic sclerosis, scleroderma-like changes and Raynaud’s phenomenon are induced by substances secreted by neoplastic cells and immunological disturbances connected are associated with malignancy. They may precede the clinical manifestation of neoplasm, occur simultaneously or after its diagnosis. In turn, chronic course of rheumatic diseases (Sjögren’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis) by immunologic stimulation may promote carcinogenesis. Genetic, environmental factors (viruses, chemical substances, radiation) and alterations of immunological surveillance may be the cause of both rheumatic and paraneoplastic disorders. Anticancer therapy may cause rheumatic diseases and immunosuppressive agents used in patients with rheumatic syndromes may have carcinogenic effect. Patients with long-standing or atypical course of rheumatic disorders, positive family or personal history of neoplastic disease, positive cancer markers, monoclonal antibodies or presence of other paraneoplastic syndromes should be diagnosed as possibly having occult neoplasm. In this paper we reviewed available literature on coexistence of rheumatic processes and malignancies to attract particular attention to practical aspects of this vital issue.