Ependymomas with Extraneural Metastasis to Lung in Children: A Rare Case Report and Literature Review

Introduction

Ependymomas, accounting for approximately 10% of pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors, are glial neoplasms that primarily arise from ependymal cells lining the cerebral ventricles and spinal canal. Although these tumors are generally confined to the CNS, extraneural metastasis (ENM) is a rare but concerning phenomenon. In this case report, we explore an instance of supratentorial anaplastic ependymoma with metastasis to the lung in a young child, shedding light on this unusual occurrence. Visit https://www.clinmedcasereportsjournal.org/acr for more groundbreaking research in this field.

Case Summary

A two-year-old girl was diagnosed with a supratentorial anaplastic ependymoma following persistent symptoms of headaches and vomiting. Initial imaging revealed a large mixed solid-cystic mass in the left parieto-occipital region. Despite undergoing multiple surgical interventions and radiotherapy, the tumor exhibited aggressive recurrence. Notably, metastatic lesions were identified in the lungs 21 months after the initial diagnosis. Unfortunately, the child succumbed to the disease 25 months post-diagnosis, underscoring the challenges associated with ENM in pediatric ependymoma cases.

Read the full study at https://doi.org/10.29328/journal.acr.1001039.

Understanding Extraneural Metastasis in Ependymomas

ENM in ependymomas is rare, with an incidence of up to 4.3%. Factors contributing to metastasis include repeated surgeries, radiotherapy, and tumor proximity to venous sinuses, potentially facilitating hematogenous dissemination. The American Cancer Society highlights that pediatric brain tumors can exhibit aggressive behavior, necessitating rigorous follow-up and multidisciplinary management approaches.

Clinical Implications and Future Directions

The case underscores the importance of early detection, aggressive management, and continuous surveillance in high-risk pediatric ependymomas. Future studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms driving ENM and to explore targeted therapies that may improve survival outcomes.

A detailed analysis can be found in our main journal article. Additionally, explore more studies at https://www.clinmedcasereportsjournal.org/acr and join the conversation by sharing your thoughts in the comments below!

Key Takeaways

• Ependymomas are a rare but significant pediatric CNS tumor with aggressive variants.
• Extraneural metastasis to the lung is an uncommon and poorly understood phenomenon.
• Repeated surgeries and radiotherapy may contribute to the dissemination of tumor cells.
• Continuous follow-up and research are critical to improving prognosis and treatment strategies.

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