Surgical removal of primary central nervous system lymphomas (PCNSL) presenting as space occupying lesions: a series of 33 cases

In this study we present a series of 33 patients with primary CNS lymphomas (PCNSL), many presenting with acute signs of increased intracranial pressure due to large space occupying lesions. A series of 32 PCNSL patients for a total of 33 tumours treated from 1986 to 2000 in the Neurosurgical Department were reviewed. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy improved survival. No benefit could be demonstrated for the role of surgery. Our data confirm previous reports about the role of radiation and chemotherapy in the treatment of PCNSL's. Surgery might have a role in a selected subset of patients presenting with large single space occupying lesions and deteriorating neurological status.