Spontaneous Cure of Congenital Recurring Connective Tissue Tumor

Abstract

A spontaneous cure of a congenital, recurring, supposedly malignant connective tissue tumor of the interscapular region of a six-month-old child is reported. The diagnosis was based upon the histologic study of two biopsy specimens in two different laboratories. The growth disappeared following the second imcomplete operation, and the child has remained well for seven years.

Case Details

Personal Characteristics

Six-month-old girl, normally developed, no congenital abnormalities

Clinical Characteristics

Raised mass about 5 centimeters in diameter, fixed to the overlying skin by a transverse, healed surgical scar. The tumor was firm, movable with the skin and underlying muscles, and was not tender. Tumor tissue was found widely infiltrating the underlying muscles and overlying skin.

Remission Characteristics

The mass had decreased in size. The improvement was spontaneous and had occurred in the absence of any further surgical, radiation, or medicinal therapy. There was no evidence of residual or recurrent tumor. No return of the growth has been noted since the patient was seen on may 29, 1931. Roentgenograms of the chest made on january 26, 1932, showed normal lung fields with no evidence of metastatic tumor.

Treatment & Mechanisms

Proposed Remission Mechanisms

Not discussed

Clinical Treatment

Surgical removal attempted, but complete excision was impossible due to wide infiltration of the tumor tissue. A wedge-shaped piece was removed from the center of the growth for histologic study, the bulk of the tumor being left in situ.

Additional Notes

The tumor had disappeared and reappeared beneath the scar several times during the past year. The child was well and had no complications except occasional itching in the region of the scar seven years after operation.