CNS prophylaxis
Also written as: CNS — Central Nervous System prophylaxis
Preventive treatment to the central nervous system to prevent leukemia or lymphoma cells from establishing sanctuary site disease.
Full Definition
Central nervous system (CNS) prophylaxis refers to specific therapeutic interventions designed to prevent or treat subclinical central nervous system involvement in hematologic malignancies, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukemia and certain lymphomas. The CNS is considered a pharmacologic sanctuary site where systemic chemotherapy may not achieve adequate drug concentrations. CNS prophylaxis typically includes intrathecal chemotherapy (methotrexate, cytarabine, or both), high-dose systemic methotrexate, and/or cranial irradiation. The choice and intensity of CNS prophylaxis depend on patient age, disease type, risk stratification, and presence of CNS disease at diagnosis. This approach has significantly reduced CNS relapses and improved overall survival in pediatric leukemia patients.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from CNS treatment (for established disease) and ensure proper hyphenation in CNS-directed therapy.
In Context
- "The treatment protocol included CNS prophylaxis with intrathecal methotrexate every 12 weeks." — Treatment protocol document
- "High-risk patients received intensified CNS prophylaxis to prevent sanctuary site relapse." — Clinical trial summary