[Paediatric myofibroblastic tumours. A presentation of three cases]

M Oscoz Lizarbe1, J Hualde Olascoaga, E Rúperez García

  • 1Hospital Virgen del Camino, Irunlarrea, Pamplona, España.

Insights

Paediatric inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours are rare and can be benign or malignant. Fever is a key symptom, with location-specific signs like haematemesis or respiratory issues aiding diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Paediatric inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours (IMT) are rare neoplasms with unpredictable behavior.
  • While often benign, IMT can exhibit malignant potential, necessitating accurate diagnosis and management.

Observation:

  • Fever was the predominant symptom across all presented cases.
  • Tumor location influenced clinical presentation, with haematemesis and respiratory disease indicating specific sites.
  • One case was initially misdiagnosed as tuberculosis due to Mycobacterium avium.

Findings:

  • All patients exhibited elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), thrombocytosis, and hypergammaglobulinemia.
  • Histopathological diagnosis is crucial for definitive identification.
  • Early onset was noted in a 3-month-old infant, highlighting the disease's potential for rapid development.

Implications:

  • Complete surgical resection offers a curative pathway for paediatric IMT.
  • Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are vital for favorable outcomes.
  • Awareness of IMT's varied presentation is essential for pediatricians and oncologists.

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