Lymphoma

GENERAL PRINCIPLES

• Lymphomas commonly associated with AIDS are non-Hodgkin lymphoma, CNS and systemic lymphoma, and lymphomas of B-cell origin.

• EBV appears to be the associated pathogen.

DIAGNOSIS

• Primary CNS lymphomas are common and can be multicentric.

• Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, the presence of enhancing brain lesions, brain biopsy, and a positive EBV-PCR of the CSF.

• Other OIs need to be ruled out.

• Other potential extranodal sites of involvement including bone marrow, GI tract, and liver require tissue biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.

TREATMENT

Treatment involves chemotherapy and radiation. May respond to corticosteroids alone.