Benign lipoblastoma arising in the neck

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Surgical Pathology
• Pediatric Oncology

Background:

• Lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis are rare, benign tumors originating from embryonic fat tissue.
• These tumors exhibit local invasiveness but lack metastatic potential.
• They most commonly affect males under three years old, presenting as slowly growing limb masses.

Observation:

• This case describes an exceptionally rare presentation of lipoblastoma in the neck of a 13-month-old male.
• The rapidly enlarging neck mass clinically mimicked a cystic hygroma.
• This represents the tenth documented case of neck lipoblastoma in the literature.

Findings:

• Diagnosis of lipoblastoma is confirmed through histological examination.
• Complete surgical resection is the recommended treatment modality.
• This case underscores the rarity of neck lipoblastoma, highlighting its potential to mimic other pediatric neck masses.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnosis through histology is crucial for appropriate management of pediatric neck masses.
• Surgical resection remains the definitive treatment for lipoblastoma.
• Increased awareness of rare presentations like neck lipoblastoma can improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.