Intraocular Lymphoma

Intraocular lymphomas are rare, non-Hodgkin, large B-cell lymphomas affecting the vitreous, the retina, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) or the uvea tract. Vitreoretinal lymphomas (VRLs) are the most common subtype and are associated with central nervous system (CNS) involvement. Both the eye and the brain share mutual characteristics and are targeted by the spreading lymphoma cells. Intraocular lymphoma is a rare invasion of intraocular malignancy. More common form is VRL involving the vitreous and the retinal pigment epithelium. The uvea tract is affected in metastatic lymphomas. VRL is firmly correlated with CNS involvement. Diagnosis of VRL is challenging as its initial appearance is like intermediate or posterior uveitis. Treatment strategies are debated when concurrent CNS involvement is not confirmed. Intraocular lymphoma is a great mimic of chronic uveitis and taking into consideration the malignant nature of lymphoma disease, every ophthalmologist should be aware of it and a multidisciplinary approach is vital for the patient.