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Subtotal maxillectomy for melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy
B A Mast1, S B Kapadia, E Yunis
1Department of Pathology of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, and Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, PA, USA. mast@surgery.ufl.edu
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|June 8, 1999
Summary
Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) is a rare, rapidly growing tumor in infants. Aggressive surgical excision with histopathologic confirmation is crucial to prevent recurrence and ensure curative treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Surgical Pathology
- Craniofacial Surgery
Background:
- Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) is a rare, pigmented neoplasm affecting infants under one year old.
- This rapidly growing tumor predominantly impacts the craniofacial skeleton.
Observation:
- While MNTI is typically benign, incomplete excision, multicentricity, and potential malignancy contribute to a high recurrence rate.
- Clinical experience and literature data inform treatment recommendations.
Findings:
- An aggressive surgical approach, including complete excision of MNTI when vital structures are uninvolved, is advocated.
- Histopathologic confirmation of complete excision is essential.
Implications:
- Complete surgical excision minimizes the risk of MNTI recurrence.
- This approach offers curative treatment with minimal patient morbidity.
