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Published on: December 26, 2013
Nodular fasciitis: A rapidly enlarging destructive periorbital mass in an infant
R Tom Liu1, Erika Henkelman2, Oana Popescu3
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
Insights
Nodular fasciitis is a rare benign tumor that can mimic orbital malignancy in infants. Prompt investigation and surgical repair of associated orbital wall erosion can lead to favorable outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Nodular fasciitis is a rare benign soft tissue tumor.
- It can present as a rapidly growing periorbital mass, mimicking orbital malignancy.
- Early diagnosis is crucial, especially in pediatric cases.
Observation:
- A 9-month-old boy presented with a rapidly growing periorbital mass.
- Computerized tomography (CT) scans revealed significant erosion of the lateral orbital wall.
- Incisional biopsy confirmed nodular fasciitis, with negative USP6 gene rearrangement.
Findings:
- Nodular fasciitis can cause extensive bony erosion in the orbit.
- Complete surgical excision is feasible for this benign tumor.
- Repair of orbital wall defects using polydioxanone (PDS) plates can restore function and aesthetics.
Implications:
- Nodular fasciitis requires prompt investigation due to its malignant-like presentation.
- Orbital wall erosion, though rare, can be successfully managed in pediatric patients.
- Multidisciplinary management ensures good functional and cosmetic results for orbital tumors.
Purpose:
To review the clinical and histopathological features of nodular fasciitis, a rare benign periorbital tumor that mimics orbital malignancy, by presenting a case involving an infant with marked orbital wall erosion requiring repair.
Observations:
A 9-month-old boy developed a rapidly growing periorbital mass concerning for a soft tissue malignancy. Computerized tomography (CT) scans showed bony erosion of the lateral orbital wall. Incisional biopsy revealed nodular fasciitis. USP6 gene rearrangement was negative. The tumor was completely excised and the underlying orbital wall defect was repaired with polydioxanone (PDS) plate.
Conclusions And Importance:
Nodular fasciitis is a benign periorbital tumor that presents like malignancies and warrants prompt investigations, especially in children. Orbital wall erosion is rare and can be repaired to yield good functional and cosmetic outcome.
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