Infantile hemangiopericytoma

Infantile Hemangiopericytoma

Infantile hemangiopericytoma on the skin

Infantile hemangiopericytoma is a rare vascular tumor that occurs in infants and young children. It is characterized by the proliferation of pericytes, which are contractile cells that wrap around the endothelial cells of capillaries and venules. This tumor is considered a variant of hemangiopericytoma, which can occur at any age but has distinct features when it presents in infancy.

Clinical Presentation

Infantile hemangiopericytoma typically presents as a solitary, firm, and painless mass. The tumor can occur in various locations, including the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and deep soft tissues. It is most commonly found in the extremities but can also appear in the head and neck region, trunk, and retroperitoneum.

Pathology

Histologically, infantile hemangiopericytoma is composed of tightly packed spindle-shaped cells with a rich vascular network. The tumor cells are arranged around a staghorn vascular pattern, which is a characteristic feature. The stroma may vary from myxoid to collagenous, and mitotic activity can be observed.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of infantile hemangiopericytoma is primarily based on histological examination. Imaging studies such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan may be used to assess the extent of the tumor and its relationship to surrounding structures. A biopsy is often required to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The primary treatment for infantile hemangiopericytoma is surgical excision with clear margins. Complete resection is crucial to prevent recurrence. In cases where the tumor is not resectable or if there is metastatic disease, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be considered.

Prognosis

The prognosis for infantile hemangiopericytoma is generally favorable, especially when the tumor is completely resected. However, the risk of recurrence and metastasis exists, necessitating long-term follow-up. The biological behavior of the tumor can vary, and some cases may exhibit aggressive features.

Related Pages

• Hemangiopericytoma
• Vascular tumors
• Pediatric oncology