Primary renal lymphoma: A population-based analysis using the SEER program (1973-2015)

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Epidemiology
• Pathology

Background:

• Primary renal lymphoma (PRL) is a rare non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) confined to the kidneys.
• Existing literature on PRL epidemiology and outcomes is limited.

Observation:

• Utilized the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Result (SEER) database (1984-2015) to analyze PRL characteristics.
• Identified 599 eligible PRL patients, representing 0.17% of all NHL cases.
• Observed an increasing age-adjusted incidence of PRL.

Findings:

• The median age of PRL patients was 72 years, with a predominance of Caucasian males.
• Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) was the most common histologic type, often presenting as unilateral tumors.
• Age 60 years or older was the strongest predictor of worse overall survival (OS) and cause-specific survival (CSS).
• Non-DLBCL histology was associated with improved OS and CSS.

Implications:

• PRL is a rare entity with a rising incidence.
• Age and specific lymphoma subtypes significantly impact patient survival.
• Further research into PRL is warranted given its rarity and evolving incidence patterns.