What is primary CNS lymphoma?
Primary central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells arising from lymphocytes (white blood cells) form tumors in the brain or spinal cord. The tumor causes pressure on the surrounding brain structures and can cause significant neurological symptoms.
At Penn Medicine, patients have access to the latest diagnostic and treatment approaches for tumors of the brain and spinal cord, including primary CNS lymphoma.
Primary CNS lymphoma symptoms
Symptoms of primary CNS Lymphoma include:
- Changes in speech or vision
- Seizures
- Paralysis on one side of the body
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty walking
Causes of primary CNS lymphoma
The cause of primary CNS lymphoma is unknown. However, since primary CNS lymphoma arises from cells of the immune system, people with impaired immune systems and certain genetic and infectious diseases are at an increased risk of developing this form of cancer.
Diagnosis of primary CNS lymphoma
Penn Medicine offers advanced imaging, including MRI spectroscopy, to help differentiate between primary CNS lymphoma and other tumor types. In addition, blood tests and analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid may further assist diagnosis. However, a biopsy of the tumor is sometimes still necessary for definitive diagnosis. Penn neurosurgeons employ precision guided, minimally invasive biopsies using the latest neuro-navigation techniques. Likewise, Penn Center for Personalized Diagnostics helps to identify the exact genetic signature of the tumor for a personalized approach to the treatment of every patient.
Treating primary CNS lymphoma
Depending on the severity and extent of the cancer and your age, health treatment options may vary. Primary CNS lymphoma is most often treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation. The multi-disciplinary team at Penn Medicine is able to offer the cutting edge in tumor genetic sequencing, personalized medicine and chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and the latest in clinical trials.
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