Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026
07:17
Author Spotlight: Exploring Abdominal VNS for Inflammatory Conditions
Published on: January 19, 2024
3.0K
[Primitive neuroectodermal tumor of the vagus nerve]
E Pegbessou1, E S Diom, M Ndiaye
1Clinique universitaire ORL, hôpital Fann, Dakar, Sénégal.
Summary
A rare and aggressive primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNT) was found in a 4-month-old infant's neck. Surgical removal and histological analysis confirmed the PNT diagnosis in this exceptional cervicofacial case.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Head and Neck Surgery
- Neuro-oncology
Background:
- Primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNTs) are aggressive malignancies.
- Cervicofacial PNTs are exceptionally rare, particularly in infants.
Observation:
- A 4-month-old infant presented with severe supralaryngeal dyspnea and a painful neck mass.
- The mass was located under the left mandibular angle, extending to the parotid area.
- Cervical CT revealed a well-defined, contrast-enhancing mass in the carotid region.
Findings:
- Surgical exploration identified a vascularized mass originating from the vagus nerve.
- Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of primitive neuroectodermal tumor.
- The tumor caused significant airway obstruction and neurological symptoms.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare tumors in pediatric dyspnea.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial for managing cervicofacial PNTs.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of PNTs in this location is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Nerve Supply of the GI Tract
3.6K
The neuronal supply to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is essential for regulating various functions, including digestion, absorption, and movement of food. This intricate network of nerves is known as the enteric nervous system (ENS), often referred to as the "second brain" of the body.
The enteric nervous system consists of two major plexuses: the myenteric plexus (Auerbach's plexus) and the submucosal plexus (Meissner's plexus). These plexuses are located within the layers of...
The enteric nervous system consists of two major plexuses: the myenteric plexus (Auerbach's plexus) and the submucosal plexus (Meissner's plexus). These plexuses are located within the layers of...
3.6K
01:19Cranial Nerves: Overview and Anatomy
5.5K
The cranial nerves are an important part of the complex network of nerves in the human body. These nerves emerge directly from the brain and are responsible for transmitting essential information between the brain and various parts of the head and neck. There are 12 pairs of cranial nerves, systematically numbered using Roman numerals from I to XII, beginning from the anterior and moving to the posterior of the brain. Each cranial nerve is uniquely identified by names that reflect its function...
5.5K
01:22Cranial Nerves: Types Part II
5.2K
Cranial nerves are responsible for transmitting motor and sensory information between the brain and various parts of the body. There are twelve pairs of cranial nerves. While the first six innervate the head and neck, the latter six nerves innervate the head and neck, as well as organs and tissues in the thoracic and abdominal cavities. They facilitate communication, expression, and autonomic control within the human body.
Facial Nerve (Cranial Nerve VII)
Cranial nerve VII, or the facial nerve,...
Facial Nerve (Cranial Nerve VII)
Cranial nerve VII, or the facial nerve,...
5.2K
01:27Esophageal Achalasia
79
Esophageal achalasia is a chronic neurogenic disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and absent or ineffective peristalsis in the distal esophagus. This leads to a functional obstruction without a physical blockage, despite significant disruption of esophageal motility.EtiologyAchalasia is caused by degeneration of the myenteric (Auerbach's) plexus, specifically the loss of inhibitory ganglion cells that produce vasoactive intestinal peptide...
79
01:14Cranial Nerves: Types Part I
6.0K
Cranial nerves are responsible for transmitting motor and sensory information between the brain and various parts of the body. There are twelve pairs of cranial nerves, with the first six being essential in sensory perception, motor control, and autonomic functions related to the head and neck.
Olfactory Nerve (Cranial Nerve I)
The olfactory nerve, or cranial nerve I, is unique as it is purely sensory and dedicated to the sense of smell. This nerve originates in the olfactory epithelium of the...
Olfactory Nerve (Cranial Nerve I)
The olfactory nerve, or cranial nerve I, is unique as it is purely sensory and dedicated to the sense of smell. This nerve originates in the olfactory epithelium of the...
6.0K
01:18Cranial Part of Parasympathetic Division
2.6K
The cranial part of the parasympathetic division plays a crucial role in regulating the visceral functions of the head and specific structures in the neck, thoracic, and abdominopelvic cavities. Preganglionic fibers of the parasympathetic division exit the brain through cranial nerves III (oculomotor), VII (facial), IX (glossopharyngeal), and X (vagus), delivering parasympathetic output to the respective visceral structures.
The vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) alone accounts for approximately 75...
The vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) alone accounts for approximately 75...
2.6K