Aids-related cerebral lymphoma. Pathologic and immunohistochemical study of 19 cases

We studied 19 cases of AIDS-related cerebral lymphomas, 15 of which are primary, and 4 secondary to systemic lymphoma. Eighteen cases are classified as non-Hodgkin's B cell lymphomas; in 1 case, an anaplastic large cell lymphoma coexists with systemic Hodgkin's disease. High-grade histologic types predominate (centroblastic, immunoblastic and immunoblastic plasmocytoid). One case of angiotropic lymphoma is included solely localized to the brain. We describe clinical and radiological features, gross, microscopic and immunophenotypic appearances. Other HIV-related associated diseases of the central nervous system are also considered.