Primary intraocular lymphoma: a review of the clinical, histopathological and molecular biological features

Abstract

Our understanding of the pathogenesis of PIOL/PCNSL remains far from complete. Intensified efforts must be made to determine the cell of origin of PIOL, as well as to establish "molecular signatures", which could be used to decrease diagnostic delay. Further studies, possibly prospective ones, are required to establish the optimal therapy for initial and recurrent disease.

Biopsy techniques and yields in diagnosing primary intraocular lymphoma

“…Cytologic examination of the vitreous specimen can be difficult because there may be a relative lack of lymphoma cells compared to reactive inflammatory cells [4]. In addition, atypical lymphoma cells may be in a state of necrosis such that necrotic debris does not allow for a diagnosis of PIOL to be secured (Fig.…”

“…Primary intraocular lymphoma (PIOL) is a subset of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) with predilection for intraocular regions that sit behind the blood-retina barrier [1][2][3][4]. PIOL is a unique malignant lymphoproliferation because of its affectation of an immune privileged site, involving the subretinal pigment epithelium (RPE), retina, vitreous, and optic nerve.…”

The pathologist's perspective on vitreous opacities

“…Should sufficient material be available for examination, investigation of the vitreous specimens for rearrangements of the immunoglobulin heavy chain gene using PCR provides further evidence of the neoplastic nature of the lymphocytic infiltrate in retinal lymphoma. 17,18,20,22,25,35,49,51 Biochemical analysis of the vitreous specimen for interleukin ratios (IL10 : IL6) may also support the diagnosis of retinal lymphoma. [52][53][54] If possible, retinal lymphoma should be distinguished from other types of intraocular lymphoma, namely primary uveal lymphoma and secondary (metastatic) intraocular lymphoma.…”

Primary Intraocular Lymphoma

“…22,54 Rare cases can present with infiltration of the iris or angle 39,202 or as a pseudohypopyon. 48,138 Examination of the posterior segment ( Fig.…”