Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis mimicking brain tumor: about 2 pediatric cases: ADEM mimicking brain tumor

Abstract

Introduction: Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) ADEM is a well-known and treatable inflammatory pediatric condition with a good prognosis outcome. Atypical forms exist that can lead to misdiagnosis and sometimes inappropriate management.

Observation and discussion: We report two cases with tumor-like lesions, highlighting their clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features. Diagnostic keys for prompt recognition are discussed.

Conclusion: Tumefactive demyelinating lesions can mimic brain tumors or abscesses, leading to potential misdiagnosis and inappropriate or delayed treatment. These two clinical cases emphasize the importance of considering this entity in the differential diagnosis of brain tumors in pediatric patients.

Keywords: Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis; Demyelinating pseudotumors; Tumefactive demyelinating lesion; Tumor-like demyelinating lesions.