Gangliocytic Paraganglioma of the Gastrointestinal Tract: A Case Report of Cecal Origin

Abstract

Introduction:: Gangliocytic paraganglioma is an extremely rare tumor that is composed of epithelioid, ganglion, and spindle cells. It has a predilection site in the duodenum, especially the periampullary region. The clinical course is usually benign, but a few cases of metastasis to lymph nodes or distant sites have been noted. Several case reports or small series reviews of gangliocytic paraganglioma have been published, but so far, cecal gangliocytic paraganglioma has not been described. Case description: A 61-year-old man underwent an abdominal Computed Tomography (CT) scan for known GB stones, which revealed an incidental cecal mass. The patient underwent wedge resection of the cecum for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Histopathological examination of the cecal mass identified a gangliocytic paraganglioma. There was no evidence of metastasis in the dissected regional lymph nodes. No additional treatment, such as adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy, was administered, and the patient underwent regular follow-up without any complications. Conclusion: The most common radiologic finding in gangliocytic paraganglioma is a circumscribed, enhancing subepithelial mass. Herein, we report an uncommon case of cecal-origin gangliocytic paraganglioma. With knowledge of the radiologic and histologic characteristics of gangliocytic paraganglioma, appropriate management can be provided without unnecessary radical resection.

Is Gangliocytic Paraganglioma Designated as a Subtype of Composite Paragangliomas and Originated From Pancreas Islet? A Case Report and Review of Literature

“…The presenting symptoms and complaints of GPs in digestive tracts include gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal pain, anemia, and so on, which have no reliable diagnostic signs. Imaging examinations often demonstrate a mass lesion (3)(4)(5).…”

Laparoscopic Cecectomy for Diseases of the Appendix and Cecum

“…A variety of disorders affecting the appendix and cecum have been reported including bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections, diverticulitis of the cecum, appendiceal duplication, appendiceal mucocele, neural derived tumors like paraganglioma and schwannoma, neuroendocrine tumors, polyps, and carcinoma. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 While most patients with benign disorders of the appendix are treated by appendectomy, a subset of patients such as those with necrosis of the appendiceal base from gangrenous appendicitis or benign tumors extending into the appendiceal orifice require more than the conventional appendectomy. Furthermore, a subset of patients with cecal pathology require complete cecal resection.…”