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Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy: case report
Apio Cláudio Martins Antunes1, Rodrigo Maciel Freitas, Patrícia P Oliveira
1Department of Neurosurgery, Porto Alegre School of Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. dr.apioantunes@terra.com.br
Introduction:
Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) is a rare tumor, locally aggressive, usually originated from maxilla and mandible and rarely from the skull. A case of a 4 month-old child presenting a bulging lesion in the midline of the occipitoparietal region with progressive growth is reported.
Case Report:
The neurologic examination had normal developmental milestones. Computerized tomography scan and magnetic resonance Image showed a highly enhancing tumor, dislocating anteriorly and inferiorly the superior sinuses. In order to prevent excessive bleeding, surgical resection was performed in three stages, with complete removal.
Conclusion:
Based on the absence of tumor recurrence, we believe in a favorable neurological prognosis and in a possible of cure, although the patient was not submitted to any adjuvant treatment.
Insights
A rare, aggressive Melanotic Neuroectodermal Tumor of Infancy (MNTI) occurred in an infant's skull. Complete surgical removal led to a favorable prognosis, suggesting a potential cure for this rare pediatric tumor.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neurosurgery
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Melanotic Neuroectodermal Tumor of Infancy (MNTI) is a rare, locally aggressive neoplasm.
- Typically originating in the maxilla or mandible, MNTI rarely presents in the skull.
Observation:
- A case report details a 4-month-old infant with a progressively growing midline occipitoparietal lesion.
- Neurologic examination revealed normal developmental milestones.
- Imaging demonstrated a highly enhancing tumor impacting superior sinuses.
Findings:
- Complete surgical resection was achieved in three stages to manage bleeding risks.
- Post-operative follow-up showed no tumor recurrence.
Implications:
- Favorable neurological prognosis and potential for cure are suggested, even without adjuvant therapy.
- This case highlights the possibility of successful MNTI management in the skull.
- Further research into MNTI behavior and treatment is warranted.