Avoiding a Brain Biopsy for Primary CNS Lymphoma in those with AIDS

Primary CNS lymphoma is a rare form of lymphoma that affects only the brain. It is also much more common in those with AIDS than others.

Diagnosing primary CNS lymphoma requires a brain biopsy. This is relatively simple in most individuals, but in those with AIDS it poses a special challenge. AIDS patients with brain lymphoma are usually quite ill, and an invasive procedure increases the risk of infection dramatically with their alrady malfunctioning immune system.

Doctors have found that a PET scan and CSF test for Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) can eliminate the need to do a brain biospy if both come out positive.

Read on to learn more about Primary CNS Lymphomas and how they are related to HIV/AIDS.