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[A case of mediastinal cavernous hemangioma]
1Department of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Showa University Fujigaoka Hospital.
Kyobu Geka. the Japanese Journal of Thoracic Surgery
|November 1, 1991
Summary
A rare mediastinal cavernous hemangioma was found in an asymptomatic child. Surgical resection was successful, though it involved resecting the phrenic nerve due to tumor proximity.
Area of Science:
- Thoracic Surgery
- Pediatric Oncology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Mediastinal masses are rare in children and can present diagnostic challenges.
- Cavernous hemangiomas, typically benign vascular tumors, are uncommon in the mediastinum.
Observation:
- An asymptomatic 6-year-old girl presented with a left anterior superior mediastinal mass detected on chest x-ray.
- Computed tomography revealed a calcified mediastinal mass.
- Surgical exploration via median sternotomy identified a large mass (10 x 9 x 5 cm) with pericardial attachments.
Findings:
- The mediastinal mass was histopathologically confirmed as a cavernous hemangioma.
- Calcification was noted within the interstitial tissues, not as phleboliths within vessels.
- Resection necessitated the sacrifice of the left phrenic nerve due to tumor encasement.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering cavernous hemangioma in the differential diagnosis of pediatric mediastinal masses.
- Surgical management requires careful planning due to potential involvement of vital structures like the phrenic nerve.
- Understanding the calcification pattern can aid in diagnosis and surgical approach.