A Rare Case of Mediastinal Ganglioneuroma in a 12-Year-Old Boy

Abstract

Ganglioneuromas (GNs) represent the most benign form of tumor, comprising gangliocytes and mature stroma, and are typically asymptomatic. GNs are fully differentiated neuronal tumors lacking immature elements and can potentially arise at any location along the peripheral autonomic ganglia. The primary treatment involves complete surgical excision. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are not recommended following tumor resection. This report describes a 12-year-old boy who presented to Abouzar Hospital in Ahvaz with cough, coldness, and shortness of breath. An abdominal and pelvic computed tomography scan revealed a heterogeneous hypodense mass measuring 135×105 mm in the left upper quadrant. Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of ganglioneuroma. The patient underwent surgical intervention through a midline incision extended into the 6-7th intercostal space. He was subsequently discharged in good general health. This case underscores the significance of imaging in diagnosing ganglioneuroma, mainly when located in the posterior mediastinum.

Keywords

• ganglioneuroma
• thoracoabdominal involvement
• thoracoabdominal resection
• child