Patients with ataxia telangiectasia may have an increased susceptibility to which condition?

Ataxia telangiectasia is a genetic disorder characterized by a combination of ataxia, telangiectasia (small dilated blood vessels), immune deficiency, and an increased risk of certain cancers, particularly hematologic malignancies. The correct choice indicates an increased susceptibility to hematologic cancers like Hodgkin lymphoma.

In ataxia telangiectasia, the defect in the ATM gene leads to impaired DNA repair mechanisms, making individuals more vulnerable to developing chromosomal abnormalities and mutations. This impaired DNA repair can result in a higher likelihood of cancers, especially those arising from lymphatic tissue, including Hodgkin lymphoma. The immune dysfunction associated with this condition further contributes to the risk of developing certain malignancies.

While other cancers are associated with the condition, such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, research indicates a stronger correlation specifically with hematologic malignancies like Hodgkin lymphoma. Solid tumors are also seen in ataxia telangiectasia patients, but the heightened risk for hematologic cancers, especially Hodgkin lymphoma, is notably recognized in clinical findings and studies of the disorder.