Related Experiment Videos
PNET of the hallux
J F Quinlan1, C F Healy, D Royston
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Beaumont Hospital, Beaumont, Dublin 9, Ireland. jfquinlan@hotmail.com
Irish Medical Journal
|June 18, 2004
Summary
A rare peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (pPNET) occurred in a young woman's toe, initially misdiagnosed as a hemangioma. Despite clear margins, adjuvant chemotherapy was given due to the high metastasis risk of this unusual tumor.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumors (pPNETs) are rare, aggressive neoplasms typically affecting the central nervous system or trunk.
- Distal phalanx PNETs are exceptionally uncommon, presenting diagnostic challenges and often mimicking benign conditions.
Observation:
- A 21-year-old female presented with a two-year history of intermittent right great toe pain and swelling.
- Initial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suggested a hemangioma, leading to conservative management.
- Histological confirmation revealed a peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (pPNET) of the distal phalanx.
Findings:
- The patient underwent amputation through the metatarso-phalangeal joint.
- Histological examination confirmed pPNET with clear resection margins.
- Radiological staging showed no evidence of metastasis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare malignancies in the differential diagnosis of persistent toe lesions, even with initial benign imaging findings.
- Adjuvant chemotherapy was initiated due to the inherent high metastatic potential of pPNETs, despite clear surgical margins.
- This report contributes to the literature on pPNETs in unusual anatomical locations, emphasizing the need for awareness and timely diagnosis.