As always, a careful history and physical examination are the first steps in diagnosis. CT or MRI scans performed without and with intravenous contrast enhancement are very helpful as the tumors sometimes have a characteristic appearance. If it is safe, a spinal tap may demonstrate the presence of tumor cells. The main role for surgery seems to be for biopsy to make a diagnosis. Steroids should not be given prior to the biopsy, if possible, because the tumors tend to be difficult to see on CT or MRI scan after the administration of steroids.
Radiation therapy is the standard treatment.
Chemotherapy is also used frequently in the treatment of PCNS lymphoma. This site is for informational purposes only. Read our disclaimer for more details.