Intracranial granuloma mimicking a brain tumor in a patient with scleroderma

Surg Neurol Int. 2013 Apr 18:4:54. doi: 10.4103/2152-7806.110651. Print 2013.

Abstract

Background: Intracranial granulomatous masses presenting as space occupying lesions, although rare, have been described in the literature. Causes include infections, systemic granulomatous disorders, and iatrogenic from previous surgery. We present a case demonstrating that spontaneous intracranial granuloma can exist, often mimicking a brain tumor.

Case description: A 62-year-old female presented with a short history of left sided partial seizures and a left hemiparesis. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a right sided parafalcine lesion. Histopathology demonstrated chronic inflammation of granulomatous type. She responded to steroid treatment.

Conclusion: She responded to steroid treatment. Our case demonstrated that spontaneous intracranial granuloma exists. Although rare, it should be considered in patients presenting with space occupying lesions. They can successfully be managed with steroid treatment.

Keywords: Granuloma; intracranial; scleroderma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports