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Omental myxoid hamartomas--a case report with review of literature
Shailaja Shukla1, Sanjeet Kumar Singh, Mukta Pujani
1Department of Pathology, Lady Hardinge Medical College and Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, New Delhi, India.
Abstract:
Omental mesentric myxoid hamartomas are benign infantile lesions, however they may simulate a malignant tumour both clinically and pathologically. Here, we report the case of an omental myxoid hamartoma in a 10-months old infant which was per operatively suspected to be a malignant retroperitoneal tumour, due to adhesions with the surrounding structures as well as the presence of satellite nodules.
Insights
Omental myxoid hamartomas, benign infantile tumors, can mimic malignant growths. This case highlights diagnostic challenges in infants, emphasizing the need for careful pathological evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Surgical Pathology
- Infant Oncology
Background:
- Omental myxoid hamartomas are rare, benign tumors typically presenting in infancy.
- These lesions can exhibit features that mimic malignancy on clinical and pathological examination.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate patient management and to avoid unnecessary aggressive treatment.
Observation:
- A 10-month-old infant presented with a suspected malignant retroperitoneal tumor.
- Intraoperative findings included adhesions to surrounding structures and satellite nodules, raising suspicion for malignancy.
- The lesion was located in the omentum, a fatty tissue in the abdomen.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination revealed the lesion to be an omental myxoid hamartoma.
- Despite its benign nature, the tumor's appearance and local characteristics simulated a malignant retroperitoneal tumor.
- The presence of satellite nodules and adhesions contributed to the preoperative diagnostic uncertainty.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering benign entities like myxoid hamartomas in the differential diagnosis of infantile abdominal masses.
- Awareness of these challenging presentations can prevent misdiagnosis and guide surgical and pathological assessment.
- Further research into the specific features that differentiate benign hamartomas from malignant tumors in infants is warranted.
