[Dumbbell neurogenic tumors in children]

Dumbbell neurogenic tumours are unusual neoplasms in the pediatric age group. Six cases all in children under 10 years of age, have been reviewed with respect to diagnosis, management and results. Neurologic deficits have been found in 4 patients only; in the other 2 cases the tumours were occasionally discovered. Myelograms, sometimes associated with CT scan, allowed a correct diagnosis in all the patients. Initial treatment consisted in all the cases in laminectomy or laminotomy with total excision of the extradural tumour. The primary paravertebral tumours have been removed in one patient during the same neurosurgical operation, and in other three patients at a second stage. Two patients did not require the second operation: one recovered after chemotherapy and the other died few days after the first surgical procedure. Five patients are still alive: two, who had the tumour occasionally discovered, are free from disease; among the other 3 patients, presenting with neurological symptoms, 1 is free from disease without neurological symptoms and 2 have still long lasting sequelae. The authors emphasize the role of early diagnosis to prevent neurologic abnormalities and to achieve better results.