Primary T-cell lymphoma of central nervous system (PTCLCNS): a case with unusual presentation and review of the literature

Primary Anaplastic-Lymphoma-Kinase-Positive Large-Cell Lymphoma of the Central Nervous System: Comprehensive Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND

Primary anaplastic-lymphoma-kinase (ALK)-positive large-cell lymphoma of the central nervous system (PCNS ALK-positive ALCL) is a rare entity, with a limited consensus reached regarding its management. While this pathology often presents as solitary lesions, the occurrence of multiple tumors within the brain is not uncommon. The lack of distinctive radiological features poses a diagnostic challenge, leading to delays in initiating targeted therapy.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive literature search, identifying seventeen publications for qualitative analysis.

RESULTS

The management options and reported patient outcomes in the literature varied significantly, emphasizing the need for a patient-specific approach. The emergence of ALK-specific inhibitors represents a new frontier in this field, demonstrating promising results.

CONCLUSION

PCNS ALK-positive ALCL necessitates a comprehensive understanding and optimized management strategies. A tailored therapeutic approach, integrating surgical intervention with radiotherapy and chemotherapy, appears pivotal in addressing this pathology. The implementation of a therapeutic protocol is anticipated for further advancement in this field.

Primary peripheral T-cell central nervous system lymphoma

BACKGROUND

Primary peripheral T-cell central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare, aggressive tumor that arises in the craniospinal axis and has an increased risk in individuals who are immunocompromised. This lesion often mimics other benign and malignant processes on radiographic imaging, leading to misdiagnosis and delays in treatment. We present a case of a patient with a history of Sjögren's syndrome and progressive neurologic symptoms who underwent craniotomy for diagnosis.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 61-year-old woman with a history of Sjögren's syndrome, progressive aphasia, left facial droop, and right-sided paresthesias for 4 months presented for evaluation and management. An enhancing, infiltrative lesion in the left frontal lobe with underlying vasogenic edema was appreciated and suggestive of a primary or metastatic neoplasm. The patient underwent an open biopsy for further evaluation of the lesion. Extensive histopathologic evaluation revealed a diagnosis of T-cell PCNSL. The patient was started on induction methotrexate and temozolomide followed by consolidative radiotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Autoimmune conditions are a risk factor for T-cell PCNSL development. T-cell PCNSL has radiographic and gross histologic features that are consistent with a broad differential, including gliomas and inflammatory processes. Prompt diagnosis and extensive histopathological evaluation is essential to ensure appropriate treatment.

Primary Central Nervous System Anaplastic Large T-cell Lymphoma

INTRODUCTION

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) of T-cell origin is an exceptionally rare, highly malignant intracranial neoplasm. Although such a tumor typically presents with a focal mass lesion.

CASE REPORT

Past medical history of a 26-year-old male patient with a PCNS lymphoma of T-cell origin was not suggestive of intracranial pathology or any disorder of other organs and organic systems. To achieve a gross total tumor resection, surgery was performed via osteoplastic craniotomy using the left frontal transcortical transventricular approach. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses of the tissue removed described tumor as anaplastic large cell lymphoma of T-cells (T-ALCL). Postoperative and neurological recovery was complete, while control imaging of the brain showed no signs of residual tumor at a six-month follow-up. The patient, who did not appear immunocompromized, was referred to a hematologist and an oncologist where corticosteroids, the particular chemotherapeutic protocol and irradiation therapy were applied.

CONCLUSION

Since PCNS lymphoma is a potentially curable brain tumor, we believe that proper selection of the management options, including early radical tumor resection for solitary PCNS lymphoma, may be proposed as a major treatment of such a tumor in selected patients, resulting in a satisfactory outcome.