Primary malignant lymphomas of the central nervous system

Eighty‐three cases of primary malignant lymphomas of the central nervous system (CNS) from the files of the AFIP were studied according to various clinical and pathologic parameters. The histologic patterns observed are analogous to those seen in the spectrum of malignant lymphomas arising in the reticuloendothelial system of other organs. The authors favor the diagnosis of primary malignant lymphoma of the CNS rather than that of “reticulum cell sarcoma” or “microgliomatosis” used in the past. Lesions are frequently multifocal, and surgery, other than for diagnostic biopsy, is not usually beneficial. The clinical course can be significantly prolonged by radiation therapy.