Oligodendroglioma Fact Sheet

• A rare type of primary brain tumor that develops from cells called oligodendrocytes that produce the fatty covering of nerve cells.
• This tumor is found primarily in the cerebrum, in the frontal or temporal lobes.
• Oligodendrogliomas are divided into two types; a well-differentiated tumor, which grows slowly, and second type known as an anapalastic oligodendrogliom, which grows faster.
• Oligodendroglioma is a type of glioma which is graded 1-4. This grading defines how abnormal the cells are and how rapidly they grow. Grade 1 is the least malignant, while grade 4 is very malignant.
• More common in adults but can present in children, occurs more often in men than women.
• Those with a slow growing oligodendroglioma may have a tumor for many years before becoming symptomatic.

Symptoms vary depending on where in the brain the tumor is situated. Oligodendrogliomas are most often found in the frontal or temporal lobes where symptoms include gradual changes in mood and personality, one-sided paralysis (hemiparesis), coordination and speech issues as well as memory loss. 

Medical content was reviewed by Dr. Dong Kim of Brigham and Women's Hospital, March 2004.