Spindle Cell Neoplasm With a Novel MN1::TAF3 Fusion: A Rare Case in a Toddler

Jesse White1, Kerri Becktell2, Amanda Hopp3

  • 1Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals.

Insights

Pediatric orbital spindle cell tumors are rare. A novel MN1::TAF3 gene fusion was identified in an 18-month-old, presenting diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric oncology
  • Molecular pathology
  • Ophthalmology

Background:

  • Spindle cell tumors are infrequently documented in children.
  • Orbital tumors in pediatric patients require careful diagnosis and management.
  • Unilateral ptosis can be an initial sign of orbital pathology.

Observation:

  • An 18-month-old infant presented with unilateral ptosis.
  • An orbital spindle cell tumor was diagnosed.
  • Initial histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses showed nonspecific features.

Findings:

  • Extensive molecular testing revealed a novel MN1::TAF3 gene fusion.
  • This fusion has not been previously reported in spindle cell neoplasms.
  • RNA sequencing identified the specific molecular alteration.

Implications:

  • The novel fusion presents diagnostic and classification challenges.
  • This finding expands the molecular understanding of pediatric spindle cell tumors.
  • Further research is needed to determine therapeutic strategies for tumors with this fusion.