DefinitionPrimary lymphoma of the brain is cancer of the lymph cells that starts in the brain.Alternative NamesBrain lymphoma; Cerebral lymphoma; Primary lymphoma of the central nervous system; Lymphoma - brainCauses, incidence, and risk factorsThe cause of primary brain lymphoma is unknown. It is more common in people ages 45 - 70.Patients who have a weakened immune system are at greater risk for primary lymphoma of the brain. Common causes of a weakened immune system include:HIVOrgan transplants (especially heart transplants)Primary lymphoma of the brain is also linked to Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection, the virus that causes mononucleosis.The rate of primary brain lymphoma is rising, but it is still relatively rare.SymptomsChanges in speechChanges in visionConfusionFeverHallucination