# Case Report: Neurobrucellosis Presenting as Malignancy

## TL;DR

A 25-year-old woman in Peru had a brain lesion initially suspected as cancer, but it was diagnosed as neurobrucellosis, a rare infection caused by Brucella.

## Contribution

This case report highlights neurobrucellosis as a rare differential diagnosis for brain masses in endemic regions.

## Key findings

- A brain biopsy showed non-necrotizing granulomas without malignancy.
- Serum testing confirmed Brucella infection.
- The patient's symptoms and imaging findings led to a correct diagnosis of neurobrucellosis.

## Abstract

Neurobrucellosis, caused by Brucella species, is a zoonotic infection that may involve the central nervous system. Although uncommon, it can manifest as a solitary intracranial mass. We report a case of neurobrucellosis in a 25-year-old woman from Peru who presented with headache, weight loss, and right-side hemiparesis and paresthesia. A contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging scan revealed an intracerebral mass in the left temporal lobe. Serum testing subsequently were positive. Brain biopsy demonstrated non-necrotizing granulomas without malignant cells. Neurobrucellosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of brain space occupying lesions in endemic countries.