Boosting Survival Odds in Central Nervous System Lymphoma

High-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem-cell transplantation turned in impressive results in patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). A decade's worth of follow-up data from a European study showed high overall survival rates, but without treatment-related mortality. The study authors touted this protocol as a promising treatment option in newly diagnosed PCNSL.

RESULT: Prognosis after high-dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem-cell transplantation as first-line treatment in primary CNS lymphoma—a long-term follow-up study
Annals of Oncology |  Sep 25, 2012 (Free abstract. Full text $32)

Without extensive research on Burkitt lymphoma (BL), treatment for many other lymphomas would not have been possible, according to Ian Magrath, MD, president of the Brussels-based International Network for Cancer Treatment and Research. In a review article, Magrath highlights the history of BL, from its discovery in equatorial Africa to the treatment advances made over the last half century that have led to prolonged survival.

RESULT: Towards Curative Therapy in Burkitt Lymphoma: The Role of Early African Studies in Demonstrating the Value of Combination Therapy and CNS Prophylaxis
Advances in Hematology | Nov 1, 2012 (FREE FULL TEXT)