What Is Brain Lymphoma?
Brain lymphoma, also known as primary cerebral lymphoma or primary central nervous system lymphoma, is a rare, highly aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma cancer originating in the lymph tissue (white blood cells) of the brain or spinal cord, and can also be found in the eyes. This type of cancer can be treated effectively and even cured if it is found early.
What Causes Brain Lymphoma?
Causes of brain lymphoma are unknown, but people who have weakened immune systems are at heightened risk. Immunocompromised people can include those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, previous cancer, alcoholism, and other conditions that make it more difficult for their bodies to fight off infection.
Symptoms of Brain Lymphoma
Symptoms of brain lymphoma can include:
- Confusion
- Weakness in the arms and legs
- Headaches
- Double vision
- Loss of hearing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight loss
- Numbness, tingling, and pain
- Seizures
- Personality changes
Diagnosis and Testing
Tests for brain lymphoma include:
- Physical and neurological exams
- Imaging
- Bloodwork
- Stereotactic Biopsy
- Spinal tap (lumbar puncture)
Treatment of Brain Lymphoma
Because of the aggressive spread of this kind of cancer, Open surgery is
often not deemed an effective treatment option.
Once the diagnosis is confirmed by Stereotactic biopsy, the standard treatment
of brain lymphoma can include:
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy with or without stem cells
- Steroid therapy
- Surgery, only in selected cases
