Tumefactive multiple sclerosis

Demyelinating diseases

General description

Tumefactive multiple sclerosis is a rare subtype of Multiple sclerosis (MS) characterized by the formation of lesions larger than 2 cm, often resembling a mass. The immunosuppressive drugs tacrolimus and fingolimod have been reported to cause tumefactive MS.

Clinical symptoms frequently include neurological deficits, seizures, and aphasia, resulting from the pressure exerted by the lesion.

Radiographic features

Tumefactive MS is typically seen in supratentorial region and, unlike tumors, has little peripheral edema. The contrast effect is in the form of a ring or open ring, with the non-contrast side being cortical.

Tumefactive MS

  • Cerebrum
Heterogeneous
T2WI
Hyperintensity
FLAIR
Hyperintensity
Ring shaped
Open ring shaped
CE FLAIR
Enhancement