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Updated: Apr 24, 2026
Comprehensive Autopsy Program for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis
Published on: July 19, 2019
Multiple sclerosis and oligodendroglioma: an exceptional association
Ana Teresa Carvalho1, Paulo Linhares2, Lígia Castro3
1Neurology Department, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova Gaia/Espinho, 4434-502 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal ; MS Clinic, Neurology Department, Centro Hospitalar São João, 4440-563 Porto, Portugal.
Abstract:
The cooccurrence of multiple sclerosis (MS) and oligodendroglioma is very rare. We present a 43-year-old male patient with the diagnosis of MS lasting for 14 years who developed seizures and right hemiparesis; cerebral MRI revealed an already known extensive lesion, previously misdiagnosed as tumefactive demyelinating lesion. Cerebral biopsy leads to oligodendroglioma diagnosis, successfully treated with radiotherapy. The diagnosis of a brain tumor in a MS patient is challenging. The atypical clinical and radiological features are the key for accurate diagnosis. In such cases, a brain tumor has to be kept in mind no matter how rare this association is.
Insights
The rare co-occurrence of multiple sclerosis (MS) and oligodendroglioma presents diagnostic challenges. Early recognition of atypical features is crucial for timely brain tumor diagnosis in MS patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Oncology
- Neuropathology
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Oligodendroglioma is a type of primary brain tumor arising from oligodendrocytes.
- The simultaneous occurrence of MS and oligodendroglioma is exceptionally rare in clinical practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of oligodendroglioma in a patient with a long-standing diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
- To highlight the diagnostic challenges posed by the co-occurrence of these two conditions.
- To emphasize the importance of considering brain tumors in MS patients presenting with atypical neurological symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a 43-year-old male with a 14-year history of MS.
- Review of cerebral MRI findings showing an extensive lesion initially misdiagnosed as tumefactive demyelinating lesion.
- Histopathological examination of a cerebral biopsy confirming oligodendroglioma.
Main Results:
- The patient, diagnosed with MS for 14 years, developed seizures and right hemiparesis.
- Cerebral MRI revealed a lesion previously misdiagnosed as tumefactive demyelinating lesion.
- Cerebral biopsy confirmed oligodendroglioma, which was successfully treated with radiotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Diagnosing a brain tumor in a patient with multiple sclerosis is complex.
- Atypical clinical presentations and radiological features are critical for accurate diagnosis.
- The possibility of a brain tumor must be considered even in rare associations with MS.
