Carcinoid tumor in a 10-year-old boy challenges in diagnosis and management: A rare case report

Introduction: Lung cancer is a major cause of cancer-related deaths, with 2 million new cases annually. Bronchopulmonary neuroendocrine tumors (BP-NETs) comprise about 20 % of lung cancers, including typical carcinoid tumors (TC). While tobacco is a primary risk factor, non-tobacco factors also play a role. Typically, NETs affect individuals over 50, with typical carcinoids being rare in children. This report discusses a unique case of a typical carcinoid in a 10-year-old boy linked to environmental exposure.

Case presentation: A 10-year-old boy presented with cough, dyspnea, hemoptysis, and recurrent pneumonia. Imaging revealed lobar collapse and a large mass in the right lower lobe. Surgical excision confirmed a carcinoid tumor with no lymph node metastasis. Post-surgery, the patient showed complete symptom resolution during follow-up.

Discussion: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are uncommon in children and can present with respiratory symptoms. This case highlights the importance of considering NETs in pediatric patients, particularly with environmental exposure. Timely diagnosis and surgical intervention led to a successful outcome, emphasizing the need for awareness of these tumors in younger populations.

Conclusion: This case report presents a rare typical carcinoid tumor in a 10-year-old boy, with successful surgical resection leading to complete symptom resolution. It highlights the need to recognize bronchopulmonary neuroendocrine tumors in children, particularly those with environmental exposure, and underscores the importance of ongoing follow-up for affected patients.