New publication on pseudotumoral lesions in MS co-authored by Prof. Jelena Drulovic

By ParadigMS Foundation
Prof. Jelena Drulovic, ParadigMS Foundation Board Member, has co-authored the article Etiology and Characteristics of Pseudotumoral Lesions and Tumefactive Demyelination in Multiple Sclerosis, published in Elsevier in November 2024.
We are pleased to invite you to explore this publication, which provides valuable insights into the complexities of pseudotumoral MS lesions and their clinical implications.
Introduction
The article titled “Etiology and Characteristics of Pseudotumoral Lesions and Tumefactive Demyelination in Multiple Sclerosis” delves into the complex nature of tumefactive demyelinating lesions (TDLs) in MS. These lesions, often resembling tumors due to their size and appearance, present significant diagnostic challenges. The study examines the underlying causes, clinical presentations, and distinguishing features of TDLs, aiming to enhance understanding and improve differentiation from other neurological conditions. By shedding light on these atypical manifestations, the research contributes valuable insights into the diagnosis and management of MS.
Authors: Olivera Tamas a b, Marija Kovacevic a, Nikola Veselinovic a b, Maja Budimkic a b, Vanja Jovicevic b, Nikola Momcilovic b, Jelena Drulovic a b, Sarlota Mesaros a b.
a. Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia b. Neurology Clinic, University Clinical Center of Serbia, Serbia
Abstract
Introduction
Cerebral pseudotumoral lesions (CPTL) (>2cm) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may pose a clinical challenge. A majority will occur in the context of multiple sclerosis (MS) – also referred to as tumefactive demyelinating lesions (TDL). The aim of this study was to define and analyse clinical, MRI, and paraclinical data for MS and non-MS patients.
Methods
This prospective study included adult patients with CPTL on brain MRI referred to the Neurology Clinic, Belgrade as a tertiary University Center (2019–2023) for clinical workup and treatment. Demographic, clinical, MRI, and paraclinical data were reviewed.
Results
This study included 75 patients, of which 58.7 % had MS. Fourteen patients had previously been diagnosed with MS, while 30 (68.2 %) received the diagnosis of MS in the later course. The concordance of initial and final diagnoses was 52 %. Relapsing disease (p < 0.001) and brainstem presentation (p = 0.039) were significantly more common in MS patients. Headache (p = 0.008) and lethal outcome (p = 0.014) were significantly more common in the non-MS group. Lesions were ring-like more frequently in the MS group (p < 0.001), while patients in the non-MS group frequently displayed infiltrative (p = 0.001) and nonspecific lesions (p = 0.002). The presence of headache and megacystic morphology was associated with the presence of pathology other than MS while the relapsing disease was in favor of MS.
Conclusion
Multiple sclerosis was the most common cause of CPTL. Headache, relapsing course of disease, and megacystic morphology may help discern MS from non-MS pathology. These findings should be challenged in future studies examining larger cohorts.
The Article can be found on Elsevier website.