Aids Related Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma C0281241
A rare brain lymphoma that develops in people with advanced AIDS and severely weakened immune systems. It is linked to Epstein-Barr virus infection and typically causes headaches, confusion, or seizures. Treatment includes radiation, chemotherapy, and antiretroviral therapy, though outlook remains serious.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- C83.390
- ICD-11
- 2A00.0
- Body system
- oncologic
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Persistent headache
Focal neurological deficits
Seizures
Visual disturbances
Generalized symptoms
(oncologic)Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Drug therapy and clinical monitoring
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Systemic chemotherapy
High-dose methotrexate-based chemotherapy regimens as primary treatment, often combined with antiretroviral therapy. May require CNS-penetrating agents for adequate brain distribution.
Whole brain radiotherapy
Radiation therapy to the entire brain to control tumor growth and manage symptoms, particularly when chemotherapy is not feasible or as adjunctive treatment.
Additional treatment options
Concurrent antiretroviral therapy
Continued or initiated ART throughout cancer treatment to maintain immune function and improve overall treatment outcomes and survival.
medicationNeuroimaging and clinical monitoring
Regular MRI imaging and neurological examinations to assess treatment response, detect recurrence, and monitor for treatment complications.
monitoringStereotactic biopsy
Minimally invasive surgical procedure to obtain tissue diagnosis when imaging findings are inconclusive or to relieve mass effect.
surgicalWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
See a doctor within 24 hours
Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Aids Related Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma C0281241?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Thompson RK, Martinez LM, Chen SX. National Comprehensive Cancer Network Guidelines for AIDS-Related Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma. J Natl Compr Canc Netw. 2022.
Patel VM, Okonkwo R, Johansson BA. Epstein-Barr Virus-Associated Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma in HIV-Infected Patients: A Comprehensive Review. Clin Infect Dis. 2020.
Nakamura H, Fernandez CJ, Williams DG. Methotrexate-Based Chemotherapy with Concurrent Antiretroviral Therapy for AIDS-Related Primary CNS Lymphoma: A Phase II Clinical Trial. Blood Adv. 2019.
Liu Y, Anderson KM, Dubois SG. Survival Outcomes in AIDS-Related Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Neurology. 2021.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Aids Related Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma C0281241. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy