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Diagnosis and treatment of primary central nervous system lymphoma

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Abstract

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is an uncommon form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) that has been increasing in incidence over the past three decades. Unlike systemic extranodal NHL, the response to therapy for PCNSL patients has been somewhat unsatisfactory. However, methotrexate-based chemotherapy and whole-brain radiotherapy have improved the outcome of patients. Unfortunately, treatment-related neurotoxicity is common, especially in the elderly. Although progress has been made in treating PCNSL, there remains no optimal methotrexate dose or frequency. Treatment of recurrence also remains controversial. These important questions have prompted several clinical studies looking at novel ways to intensify chemotherapy and limit neurotoxicity.

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  1. Department of Neurology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, 10021, New York, NY, USA

    Igor T. Gavrilovic MD & Lauren E. Abrey MD

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  1. Igor T. Gavrilovic MD
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  2. Lauren E. Abrey MD
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Gavrilovic, I.T., Abrey, L.E. Diagnosis and treatment of primary central nervous system lymphoma. Curr Oncol Rep 7, 47–54 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-005-0025-x

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