Langerhans cell sarcoma: case report and review of world literature

Ted Zwerdling1, Eric Won, Lisa Shane

  • 1*Miller Children's Hospital, Long Beach †Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, CA ‡Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA.

Insights

Langerhans cell sarcoma is a rare pediatric cancer. This report details a second pediatric case with successful treatment and long-term remission, offering guidance for physicians.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Hematology
  • Oncogenesis

Background:

  • Langerhans cell sarcoma (LCS) is an exceptionally rare malignant neoplasm.
  • Pediatric cases of LCS are exceedingly uncommon, with only one previously reported instance.

Observation:

  • We present the second reported case of pediatric LCS in a young patient.
  • The child presented with symptomatic spinal cord compression, a critical manifestation.

Findings:

  • The patient underwent a multidisciplinary treatment approach including surgical resection, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
  • The child achieved a durable remission lasting 27 months post-treatment.
  • A comprehensive review of 53 published LCS cases worldwide is included to aid clinical management.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the possibility of successful outcomes in pediatric LCS with aggressive multimodal therapy.
  • The findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and prompt intervention for spinal cord compression in pediatric LCS.
  • Discussion of the BRAF genetic mutation offers insights into potential targeted therapies and the molecular underpinnings of LCS.