Updates on Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma. Review uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is an aggressive malignancy confined to the brain, spinal cord, leptomeninges, and eyes. Due to its rarity, there is a paucity of randomized trials and a varied approach to its management in the oncologic community. This review summarizes recent literature guiding current clinical practice. RECENT FINDINGS: The presentation, work up, and management of PCNSL are discussed. Induction therapy incorporates a methotrexate-based chemotherapy regimen and is generally followed by a consolidation regimen including high dose chemotherapy (with or without autologous stem cell rescue). Whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) is a potential additional consolidation strategy. Management of relapsed and refractory disease poses a special challenge due to poor outcomes. Immunotherapy and targeted treatments are promising novel strategies for recurrent/refractory patients. Currently, there is little consensus in the management of PCNSL. Treatment recommendations should be tailored to the individual patient, with consideration for risk of neurotoxicity. New, exciting strategies are in development and when feasible, enrollment in a clinical trial should be considered.

publication date

  • February 28, 2018

Research

keywords

  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms

Identity

PubMed Central ID

  • PMC6636316

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 85042654175

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1038/bmt.2017.23

PubMed ID

  • 29492682

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 20

issue

  • 2