Neuroblastoma and life-threatening tracheal obstruction: A case report and literature review

Abstract 

Thoracic neuroblastoma is a rare cause of life-threatening tracheal compression in paediatric oncology. We describe the case of a 5-month old boy with a 2-week history of progressive stridor, a right supraclavicular mass, a paravertebral/mediastinal mass on imaging and elevated urinary catecholamines. In view of the patient's threatened airway, a multidisciplinary management plan was agreed upon prior to obtaining a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of neuroblastoma. Preoperative microlaryngobronchoscopy (MLB) demonstrated critical tracheal compression necessitating intubation. Neuroblastoma was confirmed on histology. Urgent cytoreductive treatment was initiated with excellent response allowing extubation 14 days later.

Keywords: Neuroblastoma, Tracheal obstruction