Pathology of primary central nervous system lymphoma

Abstract

<jats:p>✓ The understanding of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) has lagged behind that of the much more common systemic, nodal lymphomas. Reasons for this include the relative rarity of PCNSL and the fact that these lesions differ in some ways from their histologically similar systemic counterparts. The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, the author provides concise descriptions of the pathological features of both common and uncommon types of PCNSL while discussing issues such as the confusion surrounding histological classification of PCNSLs, problems related to intraoperative diagnosis, and the appropriate diagnostic work up. Second, the author discusses a small number of molecular studies to demonstrate the great promise they offer. Such studies have already clarified some issues, including the category of lymphocyte from which the majority of PCNSLs are derived. Hopefully in the future these studies will help guide treatment decisions.</jats:p>

Genomic profiling combined with gene expression profiling in primary central nervous system lymphoma

“…The tumor cells are mainly large, with numerous apoptotic cells or widespread necrosis, which commonly hinders diagnosis in small biopsies. 1,2 Because the brain is segregated from systemic circulation by the blood-brain barrier, the phenotype and cell of origin of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) have been topics of investigation.…”

Primary intracerebral lymphoma: Case report

“…The lesion tend to be large (>2cm) and vary in circumscription. 11 The lesions are more often located in the frontal 20%, parietal 18%, temporal lobes 15%, and occipital lobes 4%. 8 The vast majority of lesions were supratentorial; approximately 60% were deeply located; 25% of patients presented multipl lesions.…”

“…7,8,9,12 The differential diagnosis of PCNSL includes glioma, metastasis, pseudo tumoural multiple sclerosis, brain abscess, subacute infarct, neurosarcoidosis, langerhans histocytosis, CNS infection (cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, etc.). 8,9,10,11 CT and MRI imaging studies due to its hypercellularity, high nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio. Masses most commonly appear isodense or hyperdense on CT scans and enhance homogeneously after intravenous administration of contrast material.…”

Classification and pathogenesis of brain tumors

“…is an uncommon form of extranodal non-Hodgkin's lymphoma involving, brain parenchyma, meninges and eyes (Commins et al 2006). Approximately 90% are CD20 + diffuse large B cell lymphomas.…”