Lymphomas mimicking neuroinflammatory diseases - A diagnostic conundrum worth revisiting

J Neuroimmunol. 2022 Nov 15:372:577970. doi: 10.1016/j.jneuroim.2022.577970. Epub 2022 Sep 15.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Central nervous system (CNS) lymphomas (CNSLs) have varied clinical presentations which can mimic neuroinflammatory disease, leading to a diagnostic dilemma for clinicians.

Recent findings: This report describes two patients who initially received a diagnosis of neuroinflammatory disorders but were refractory to treatment over a protracted time course. In both cases, biopsy revealed diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) as the final diagnosis.

Summary: The analysis of these cases provides an opportunity for increased recognition of CNS lymphomas for earlier diagnosis and treatment. It also calls for increased clinical suspicion for CNSLs in such circumstances. And possibly the search for new biomarker development for identifying and tracking CNSLs.

Keywords: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF); Lymphoma; MRI; Neuroimmunology; Neuroinflammation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Central Nervous System Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse* / diagnosis
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse* / pathology
  • Neuroinflammatory Diseases

Substances

  • Biomarkers