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[Occult neuroblastoma presenting with opsomyoclonus. A case report]
L T Huang1, S C Huang, H S Wang
1Department of Pediatric, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Changgeng Yi Xue Za Zhi
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Opsoclonus, myoclonus, and ataxia in children can indicate hidden neuroblastoma. Simple tests can diagnose this rare childhood cancer, aiding early detection and treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Pediatric Oncology
Background:
- Opsoclonus, myoclonus, and ataxia (OMA) syndrome in children is a rare neurological disorder.
- This triad of symptoms can be associated with an occult (hidden) neuroblastoma, a common childhood cancer.
Observation:
- An 18-month-old boy presented with opsomyoclonus, a key feature of the OMA syndrome.
- Diagnostic imaging, including CT scan and Iodine-131 Metaiodobenzylguanidine (I-131 MIBG) scan, identified a small neuroblastoma in the left adrenal gland.
Findings:
- Surgical removal of the neuroblastoma was performed.
- Post-surgery, the patient experienced persistent moderate mental retardation and ataxia.
- No tumor recurrence was observed three and a half years after treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering neuroblastoma in children presenting with OMA syndrome.
- Simple diagnostic tests can be effective in detecting occult neuroblastomas, potentially avoiding more complex procedures.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of neuroblastoma associated with OMA syndrome are crucial, though long-term neurological deficits may persist.