Mycobacterial spindle cell pseudotumour of the brain in a patient with sarcoidosis

Mycobacterial spindle cell pseudotumours (MSP) are benign lesions characterised by local proliferation of spindle-shaped histiocytes caused by mycobacterial infections. Cerebral MSP due to Mycobacterium avium intracellulare (MAI ) infection is rare, and is often misdiagnosed clinically and radiologically as a brain tumour. We present a case with underlying sarcoidosis and known pulmonary MAI infection presenting with partial seizures and headaches. Imaging of the brain revealed a solitary extra axial tumour within the right temporal area. Biopsy of the tumour showed evidence of MPS due to MAI infection. Prolonged treatment with antituberculous therapy showed complete resolution of the cerebral lesion.