Radiation therapy in primary non-Hodgkin's lymphomas of the CNS

Twelve patients with primary non-Hodgkin's lymphomas of the CNS are described. Out of 5 CSF cytologies performed, 4 were positive. Radiotherapy was given to the tumour area in 3 patients, or to the whole brain in 5 patients. Four cases received radiotherapy to the spinal cord as well. Patients receiving whole CNS irradiation, including the spinal cord, seem to have a longer survival than patients with brain irradiation only. Out of the 5 patients with total brain irradiation, 2 showed a relapse in the spinal cord. It is suggested that therapy should be given not only to the tumour bearing areas, but should comprise the entire CNS