Clear cell myomelanocytic tumor (PEComa) of the duodenum in a child with a history of neuroblastoma

Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2005 Nov;129(11):1484-6. doi: 10.5858/2005-129-1484-CCMTPO.

Abstract

We report herein a case of digestive clear cell myomelanocytic tumor (PEComa) that is unique in its location and presentation. The lesion, located in the duodenal wall, was diagnosed in a child with a history of cervical neuroblastoma that was in remission after surgical resection and chemotherapy. The diagnosis was obtained by examination of a biopsy specimen taken during laparoscopy. The decision was made to perform surgical resection. Examination of the surgical specimen confirmed the diagnosis of PEComa. No metastasis was found. After 2 years of follow-up, the patient is alive, without evidence of metastasis or recurrence. This case highlights the distinctive characteristics of the cells in PEComa, recognizable even on limited biopsy material. It also suggests a possible association between PEComa and neuroblastoma, 2 unusual tumors that belong to the spectrum of lesions known to occur in patients with tuberous sclerosis and that may share a possible common pathogenetic mechanism.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / diagnosis
  • Biomarkers, Tumor / analysis
  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Duodenal Neoplasms / chemistry
  • Duodenal Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Duodenal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Endocrine Gland Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Epithelioid Cells / chemistry
  • Epithelioid Cells / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Melanocytes / chemistry
  • Melanocytes / pathology*
  • Neoplasms, Second Primary
  • Neuroblastoma / pathology*
  • Pancreaticoduodenectomy
  • Sarcoma, Clear Cell / diagnosis
  • Smooth Muscle Tumor / chemistry
  • Smooth Muscle Tumor / pathology*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor