Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma Presenting as a Space-occupying Lesion: A Case Report

Abstract

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is an aggressive and rare subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, which is specifically confined to the central nervous system (CNS). As a mature B-cell neoplasm, PCNSL's unique features often result in nonspecific clinical presentations, making diagnosis challenging. Here, we present a case of a 62-year-old woman who presented with a 1-week history of right-sided body weakness, altered behaviour, incoherent speech, and facial asymmetry. A Computed Tomography (CT) scan of the brain revealed a space-occupying lesion in the frontoparietal region with associated mass effect and midline shift. The patient underwent an emergency craniotomy with tumour resection, after which she made a good recovery and was discharged home a few days later. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of primary CNS diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. This case highlights the diagnostic and management challenges associated with PCNSL, which will be discussed in detail.