Benign lipoblastoma in the neck causing respiratory insufficiency

Abstract

A benign lipoblnstoma in the neck, causing respiratory insufficiency and ipsilateral ptosis and miosis, in a 9‐month‐old girl is reported, followed by a short discussion about the nomenclature, genesis, differential diagnosis and behavior of this rare condition.

Fine Needle Aspiration Diagnosis of Lipoblastoma of the Parotid Region

“…11,12 Depending on the location, a lipoblastoma may cause mechanical symptoms of compression or obstruction or interfere with the function of neighboring tissues and organs. 26 There is no documented association of lipoblastoma with malformations, syndromes or other neoplasms. The patient's laboratory tests are usually normal; ultrasound studies reveal a solid, wellcircumscribed mass ( Figure 1A), and CT scan studies show a well-defined, soft tissue mass with areas of low attenuation suggestive of fatty composition.…”

Lipoblastoma arising from the submandibular region

“…Then, an abnormal sensation, dysphasia, trismus, and hoarseness may occur due to compression of the adjacent nerves [7]. Usually it is asymptomatic, but 2 respiratory compromised cases [7,8], 2 Horner's syndrome cases [8,9], and a hemiparesis case [9] have been reported; those resulted from compression of cervical structures. For diagnostic approach, history taking, physical examination, CT, magnetic resonance imaging, angiography, and other tests are useful, and we could confirm with excisional biopsy [10].…”

Lipoblastoma with unique localization requiring tracheal and esophageal resection

“…Localization in extremities, neck, trunk, scrotum, retroperitoneum, mediastinum, and omentum has been observed. Neck lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis are frequently asymptomatic, but respiratory compromise has been reported in around 30% of cases [5,6] owing to airway dislocation and compression by the tumor. Horner syndrome [6,7] or hemiparesis [3,7] may also occur.…”

“…Neck lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis are frequently asymptomatic, but respiratory compromise has been reported in around 30% of cases [5,6] owing to airway dislocation and compression by the tumor. Horner syndrome [6,7] or hemiparesis [3,7] may also occur. Lung lipoblastoma is unique [8,9], whereas to our knowledge, lipoblastoma localized in the upper airway and esophagus has never been reported.…”