From the Archives of the AFIP: Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma

Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation

Abstract Introduction Prevalence Historical Perspective

Pathogenesis Clinical Presentation Pathologic And Histologic Features Radiologic Features

Prognosis and Treatment Summary Source Information References

Summary

Primary CNS lymphoma, once a very rare brain neoplasm, is now one of the most common tumors of the CNS. Although this increased prevalence is partly explained by the association of the lesion with immunocompromised states, such as AIDS, the prevalence of primary CNS lymphoma has also increased in the immunocompetent population for reasons that are less clear. The characteristic appearance of CNS lymphoma is that of a white matter lesion near the ventricles that is hyperattenuated on unenhanced CT scans, is hypointense on T2-weighted MR images, and virtually always enhances. Basal ganglia lesions are common. Despite showing rapid and dramatic initial response to radiation therapy or corticosteroid therapy, CNS lymphoma almost always recurs, frequently at a site other than that of the original tumor. Although a cure is not in the foreseeable future, treatment protocols that combine radiation therapy and chemotherapy show some ability to prolong survival for patients with this once uniformly fatal disease.

Abstract Introduction Prevalence Historical Perspective

Pathogenesis Clinical Presentation Pathologic And Histologic Features Radiologic Features

Prognosis and Treatment Summary Source Information References