|
Primary lymphoma of the brain |
|
Causes and
Risks: |
|
This type
of brain tumor occurs most frequently in people whose immune response is suppressed.
It is a neoplasm that occurs in AIDS patients. The cause of the tumor is
unknown, but the Epstein-Barr virus may play a role. |
|
|
|
Personality
changes, seizures , or neurological changes may be the initial symptoms. The
tumor may disappear after a few weeks of treatment with steroids, but
recurrences of the tumor can occur in 4 to 6 months. |
|
|
|
Risk factors are AIDS or immuno-suppression from
cancer, organ transplant, or treatment of autoimmune disorders . The
incidence is 3 out of 1 million people. |
|
|
|
Symptoms: |
|
personality
change |
|
mental
status change |
|
changes in
speech |
|
weakness
in hands |
|
decreased
sensation (hot, cold, pain) |
|
seizures |
|
headache |
|
hallucinations |
|
|
|
Signs and
Tests: |
|
Tests that
indicate primary lymphoma of the brain include: |
|
a brain
biopsy that shows lymphoma |
|
a cranial
CT scan that shows brain lesion |
|
CSF total
protein , increased |
|
CSF cell
count that shows increased white blood cells |
|
|
|
Treatment: |
|
The
recommended treatment is with corticosteroids and radiation therapy . Sometimes
chemotherapy is also given. The stress of illness can often be helped by
joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems.
See cancer - support group . |
|
|
|
Prognosis: |
|
AIDS
patients are very susceptible to infection with Pneumocystis carinii
pneumonia and other severe infections. These are often the cause of death, |