Review article

Primary central nervous system lymphoma

Ivo Radman ; Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
Zdravko Mitrović ; Division of Hematology, Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Center Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia

Abstract

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a distinct form of aggressive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) confined to the central nervous system. PCNSL typically affects older population. Individuals with HIV infection are especially at risk of PCNSL development and their outcome is extremely poor. Due to the presence of the blood brain barrier, PCNSL is treated differently from other extranodal NHLs. The mainstay of treatment is the high-dose methotrexate (MTX). Despite the treatment, local relapses are frequent and almost inevitably fatal. Intensification of treatment is possible in patients younger than 60 years. Radiotherapy is effective but complicated with significant delayed neurotoxicity, especially in the elderly. There are no curative treatment options in older patients who represent the majority of patients. Novel less toxic agents have modest activity. Prospective multicentric trials are needed to establish the optimal treatment for PCNSL.

Keywords

central nervous system neoplasms; lymphoma, non-Hodgkin’s – pathology; drug therapy; radiotherapy; antineoplastic agents

Hrčak ID:

280361

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/280361

Publication date:

27.11.2008.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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