Primary central nervous system lymphoma

Abstract

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare malignancy with aggressive course and unsatisfactory outcome. This lymphoma represents 4–6% of all extranodal lymphomas. Ninety-five percent PCNSLs are diffuse large B-cell lymphomas. The most common symptoms are: focal deficits, personality changes and increased intracranial pressure. High-dose of methotrexate as monotherapy or in combination with high-dose arabinoside cytosine is the fi rst line treatment in patients with PCNSL. Radiotherapy is the treatment option in patients with residual disease and as a salvage therapy in relapsed patients.