Program Operations Manual System (POMS)
TN 53 (08-22)
DI 23022.357 Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma
COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCES INFORMATION
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ANGIOIMMUNOBLASTIC T-CELL LYMPHOMA
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ALTERNATE NAMES
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AILD; AITL; Angioimmunoblastic Lymphadenopathy with Dysproteinemia; Immunoblastic
Lymphadenopathy; Lymphogranulomatosis
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DESCRIPTION |
Angioimmunoblastic T-Cell Lymphoma (AITL) is a rare and highly aggressive cancer of the lymphatic system. AITL spreads throughout
the body by converting T-cell lymphocytes (immune cells that dispose of bacteria and
viruses) into malignant cells.
AITL is unique among non-Hodgkin lymphomas for its disabling effect on the immune
system; the symptoms that arise from the dysfunctional immune response are often more
severe than those caused by the tumor itself.
The cause of AITL is poorly understood, although there appears to be a correlation
with Epstein-Barr virus infection.
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DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, PHYSICAL FINDINGS, AND ICD-9-CM/ICD-10-CM
CODING
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Diagnostic testing:
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Blood chemistry analysis;
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Biopsy of lymph nodes and bone marrow;
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Computed tomography (CT) scan;
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Positron emission tomography (PET) scan; and
Physical findings: Symptoms of AITL include:
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Excessive sweating, especially at night;
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Skin rash, with or without itching; and
ICD-9: 202.7
ICD-10: C86.5
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PROGRESSION
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Although many patients with AITL will achieve remission with the initial course of
treatment, most will relapse. Median survival is 2-3 years from initial diagnosis.
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TREATMENT
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Bone marrow transplant has shown to lead to more positive outcomes in patients with
AITL than standard radiation and chemotherapy regimens. Corticosteroids are used to
control symptoms related to immune dysfunction.
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SUGGESTED PROGRAMMATIC ASSESSMENT*
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Suggested MER for Evaluation:
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Clinical history and examination that describes diagnostic features of the impairment;
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Pathology and surgery reports; and
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Suggested Listings for Evaluation:
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DETERMINATION
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LISTING
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REMARKS
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Meets
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Equals
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13.05 D
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AITL equals 13.05 D even when bone marrow transplant surgery is performed.
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* Adjudicators may, at their discretion, use the Medical Evidence of Record or the
listings suggested to evaluate the claim. However, the decision to allow or deny the
claim rests with the adjudicator.
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