Tumor-like multiple sclerosis: report of four cases and literature review.

AIMS AND BACKGROUND: Classical multiple sclerosis plaques usually have typical features on gadolinium-enhanced MRI scan. This non-neoplastic demyelinating process of the central nervous system generally does not produce focal space-occupying lesions associated with ring enhancement. However, atypical appearance of demyelinating lesions simulating a brain tumor is a possible well-known phenomenon. METHODS: We present our experience with 4 cases of multiple sclerosis indistinguishable clinically and neuroradiologically from a cerebral tumor. All patients underwent surgery. RESULTS: Histological examinations of all cases were positive for multiple sclerosis plaques. CONCLUSIONS: The presented cases demonstrate the importance of considering a demyelinating disease in the differential diagnosis of a tumor-like brain lesion.