CNS lymphoma
A lymphoma is a tumour caused by the uncontrolled growth of the lymph cells (a type of white blood cell). Lymph cells help the body fight infection. There are many different types of lymphoma – usually they form in the lymph nodes around the body.
Rarely, a lymphoma can form in other places, such as the central nervous system (CNS) – either as a mass that presses on the brain or spinal cord from outside or, less commonly, as a mass or spread within the meninges (the membranes covering the brain). These lymphomas are called a primary cerebral lymphoma or a primary CNS lymphoma.
CNS lymphomas represent just under 5% of brain and spinal cord tumours.
Get your free Information Pack
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a brain tumour and you don’t know which way to turn, start with our free Information Pack.
CNS lymphoma grade
CNS lymphomas are usually high grade and are a type of ‘non-Hodgkin lymphoma’ called ‘diffuse large B cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma’. (Hodgkin lymphoma is a different illness entirely).
It is important for your doctors to tell you which type of lymphoma you have.
Treatments
CNS lymphomas are treated differently to other brain tumours in that the main treatment is usually chemotherapy. Some people may also have radiotherapy after the chemotherapy.
Support and Information Services
Research & Clinical Trials Information
You can also join our active online community.
In this section
Get support
If you need someone to talk to or advice on where to get help, our Support and Information team is available by phone, email or live-chat.
Recommended reading
Share your experiences and help create change
By taking part in our Improving Brain Tumour Care surveys and sharing your experiences, you can help us improve treatment and care for everyone affected by a brain tumour.