Home > Encyclopedia of Cancer > Carcinomatous Meningitis

Definition

Carcinomatous meningitis, also called meningeal carcinomatosis, neoplastic meningitis, or leptomeningeal carcinoma, is a form of metastatic cancer that has spread to the lining of the brain and spinal cord, the parts of the body that make up the central nervous system.

Description

The meninges are membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. There are two types of meninges, thin membranes called the pia-arachnoid or leptomeninges, and firmer, tougher membranes called the dura or pachymeninges. Carcinomatous meningitis is cancer of the leptomeninges. These membranes are bathed in and help contain cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Carcinomatous meningitis is a metastatic cancer. The cancer...