A Rare Case of Large Solid Pseudopapillary Tumor in a Child

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Solid pseudopapillary tumor (SPT) is a rare pancreatic neoplasm with low-grade malignant potential, accounting for 0.13%–2.7% of exocrine pancreatic tumors.
• SPT predominantly affects young female patients, often presenting with nonspecific clinical symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report an unusual case of a large solid pseudopapillary tumor diagnosed and treated in a pediatric hospital.
• To discuss the diagnostic and management considerations for SPT in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

• A 15-year-old female patient incidentally discovered to have an abdominal mass via ultrasound.
• Computed tomography (CT) scans revealed a large, well-defined pancreatic tumor (18.2 cm diameter).
• Surgical mass excision followed by histopathological confirmation of SPT without malignancy.

Main Results:

• Histopathological findings confirmed a large solid pseudopapillary tumor of the pancreas.
• The tumor was successfully completely excised, with no evidence of malignancy.
• The patient's case demonstrates the successful management of a large SPT in a pediatric setting.

Conclusions:

• Solid pseudopapillary tumor is a rare pancreatic entity primarily affecting young females.
• Despite nonspecific symptoms, SPT generally has a good prognosis, even with metastasis.
• Close follow-up is crucial for early detection of metastasis and timely treatment adjustments.