The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Tumefactive Multiple Sclerosis

MS variant with large demyelinating plaques that mimic brain tumors.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Nöroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Tumefactive Multiple Sclerosis?

Tumefactive multiple sclerosis is a variant of MS in which demyelinating plaques larger than 2 cm produce a mass effect, in contrast to the classic small lesions of MS.

Imaging findings often mimic glial tumors and lymphoma; biopsy may therefore be needed to establish the diagnosis.

Despite their clinical and radiologic appearance, patients respond to demyelinating-disease therapy and the prognosis is generally favorable.

Symptoms

Sudden-onset focal weakness
Headache
Altered consciousness
Aphasia and neglect syndrome
Seizures
Visual field defects
Ataxia

Risk Factors

Known diagnosis of MS
Switch of immunomodulatory therapy
Discontinuation of fingolimod
First demyelinating attack

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Sudden, marked neurologic deficit
  • MRI showing tumor-like lesion
  • Attack with altered consciousness
  • Suspicion of brain tumor in an MS patient
  • Rapid worsening despite treatment

Treatment Methods

01
High-dose intravenous methylprednisolone
02
Plasmapheresis if no response
03
Cyclophosphamide in selected cases
04
Classic disease-modifying MS therapies
05
Rehabilitation
06
Brain biopsy when needed to exclude tumor

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Nöroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Nöroloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Headache and Migraine

Nöroloji

What you need to know about headache types, migraine attacks, and triggering factors.

Low Back Pain

Nöroloji

Learn about the most common causes of low back pain, risk factors, and appropriate treatment approaches.

Neck Pain and Cervical Disc Herniation

Nöroloji

Learn about the symptoms and treatment options for cervical disc herniation and problems in the neck region.

Epilepsy

Nöroloji

Accurate information about epilepsy, types of seizures, and recommendations for patients and families.

Parkinson Disease

Nöroloji

Parkinson disease is caused by progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and alpha-synuclein accumulation; well-timed therapy substantially improves function and quality of life.

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Nöroloji

Information about early signs, diagnosis, and the care process for Alzheimer's and other types of dementia.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

Nöroloji

What is multiple sclerosis, who is at risk, and which treatments are applied?

Stroke

Nöroloji

What is stroke, what are the FAST signs, and why is emergency intervention critical?

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.