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Pseudomalignancies in Children: Histological Clues, and Pitfalls to Be Avoided
Sébastien Menzinger1,2, Sylvie Fraitag3
1Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Geneva, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland.
Abstract:
The term "pseudomalignancy" covers a large, heterogenous group of diseases characterized by a benign cellular proliferation, hyperplasia, or infiltrate that resembles a true malignancy clinically or histologically. Here, we (i) provide a non-exhaustive review of several inflammatory skin diseases and benign skin proliferations that can mimic a malignant neoplasm in children, (ii) give pathologists some helpful clues to guide their diagnosis, and (iii) highlight pitfalls to be avoided. The observation of clinical-pathological correlations is often important in this situation and can sometimes be the only means (along with careful monitoring of the disease's clinical course) of reaching a firm diagnosis.
Insights
Pediatric pseudomalignancies are benign skin conditions that mimic cancer. This review helps pathologists distinguish these mimics from true malignancies, aiding accurate diagnosis and avoiding misclassification.
Area of Science:
- Dermatopathology
- Pediatric Pathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Pseudomalignancy encompasses diverse benign conditions that histologically or clinically resemble malignant neoplasms.
- Accurate differentiation is crucial in pediatric cases to prevent unnecessary aggressive treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review pediatric inflammatory skin diseases and benign proliferations that mimic malignancy.
- To provide diagnostic clues for pathologists encountering these challenging cases.
- To highlight potential diagnostic pitfalls in the evaluation of pediatric skin lesions.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on pediatric pseudomalignancies.
- Analysis of clinical and histological features of selected benign skin conditions.
- Emphasis on clinical-pathological correlation and disease course monitoring.
Main Results:
- Identified several inflammatory and proliferative skin conditions in children that can be mistaken for malignancy.
- Outlined key histological and clinical features to aid in differentiating benign mimics from true neoplasms.
- Described common diagnostic pitfalls and strategies to avoid them.
Conclusions:
- Distinguishing pediatric pseudomalignancies from true malignancies requires careful clinicopathological correlation.
- Awareness of these mimics and potential pitfalls is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate patient management.
- Monitoring the clinical course can be a critical factor in confirming a benign diagnosis.
