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Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the trachea

Sindhu Sivanandan1, Rakesh Lodha, Sandeep Agarwala

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi 110029, India.

Pediatric Pulmonology
|July 12, 2007
PubMed

Insights

A rare pediatric tracheal tumor, inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor, caused severe respiratory distress in a 9-year-old girl. Successful debulking via rigid bronchoscopy led to complete resolution without residual disease.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Surgical Pathology

Background:

  • Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a rare, typically benign neoplastic proliferation.
  • Tracheal IMT in children is exceptionally uncommon, presenting diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
  • Recurrent respiratory distress and lung collapse can be presenting symptoms.

Observation:

  • A 9-year-old girl experienced recurrent wheezing and severe respiratory distress necessitating mechanical ventilation.
  • Chest CT and bronchoscopy revealed an obstructing mass lesion at the carina.
  • The 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm carinal lesion caused significant airway compromise.

Findings:

  • Rigid bronchoscopy allowed for successful debulking of the carinal mass.
  • Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor.
  • A follow-up bronchoscopy at one month showed no evidence of residual tumor.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering IMT in pediatric patients with unexplained airway obstruction.
  • Rigid bronchoscopy is an effective minimally invasive treatment for selected tracheal IMTs.
  • Complete resection or debulking can lead to favorable outcomes in pediatric tracheal IMT.

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