Cerebral Neoplasms Associated With Renal Transplantation

IT HAS BEEN recognized recently that neoplastic growths, particularly of the reticuloendothelial system, may be a complication of human organ transplantation. Ten malignant lymphomas have been found in the world transplantation experience, an incidence apparently greater than chance.1,2Three of these occurred at this medical center, and in two the tumor was restricted entirely to the central nervous system (CNS). The clinical and pathological details of these two cases will be documented to alert neurologists and neurosurgeons who may be called upon to deal with this problem. Two additional CNS tumors have been discovered elsewhere3(Porro, R.S., written communication). This group of four cases will be considered with regard to the possibility of correct preoperative diagnosis. Finally, some possible etiologic mechanisms in the development of these neoplasms will be discussed. Report of Cases CASE1.—For several months prior to transplantation, a 14-year-old boy with chronic