Brain Lymphoma
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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.
Types
Causes
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Complications
Types
Lymphoma is a form of cancer that originates in the lymph glands or other organs within the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system consists of a network of thin tubes and bean-shaped glands known as lymph nodes, with the tubes referred to as lymph vessels or lymphatic vessels. Lymph, a fluid that circulates throughout the body, flows through these vessels and nodes. Given the extensive coverage of the lymphatic system throughout the body, lymphoma can manifest in various locations, including the brain and spinal cord.
In cases where lymphoma affects the brain, it often originates in the front part of the brain, known as the cerebrum. Additionally, lymphomas can commence in other areas, such as:
– The spinal cord, leading to a condition termed primary spinal lymphoma.
– The eyes, resulting in primary intraocular lymphoma.
– The layers of tissue surrounding the brain, referred to as leptomeninges, giving rise to primary leptomeningeal lymphoma.
Various types of lymphoma exist, and when it comes to primary CNS lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is the most prevalent. This particular type of lymphoma arises from the production of abnormal B cells in the body. B cells are a type of immune cell that plays a crucial role in defending the body against infections. In the case of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, these B cells undergo abnormalities, contributing to the development of the condition.
Causes
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
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
Tests for brain lymphoma include:
- Physical and neurological exams
- Imaging
- Computed tomography (CT)
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Positron emission tomography (PET)
- Bloodwork
- Stereotactic Biopsy
- Spinal tap (lumbar puncture)
Complications
Brain Lymphoma Treatment
Considering 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
A stem cell transplant may be recommended as consolidation therapy following the completion of chemotherapy. The goal of consolidation therapy is to eradicate any residual lymphoma cells and prevent the recurrence of the disease. If lymphoma responds positively to initial chemotherapy, and you are deemed physically fit for the procedure, a stem cell transplant with high-dose chemotherapy may be considered. This approach involves using high doses of chemotherapy to eliminate cancer cells, followed by the infusion of stem cells to help restore the bone marrow and blood cell production.
Stem cell transplants play a crucial role in the treatment of certain cancers by allowing the administration of intensified chemotherapy, which can be more effective in eliminating cancerous cells. However, it’s important to note that stem cell transplants are complex procedures and are typically recommended based on individual factors such as the type and stage of lymphoma, the response to initial treatment, and the patient’s overall health.
