Multifocal primary neuroblastoma

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to present three patients with multifocal primary neuroblastoma, to review the literature, and describe the radiographic findings.

Subjects and methods: Three children with multifocal neuroblastoma have been identified. The case histories and imaging findings in these patients are reviewed.

Results: Two children had synchronous and one child had metachronous multifocal primary neuroblastoma. The primary tumors were both in the abdomen in one patient, both in the chest in another patient, and in the chest and abdomen in the third patient. Evidence for multifocal origin of these tumors, rather than metastatic spread, is presented.

Conclusion: Multifocal primary neuroblastomas can occur. The tumors maybe synchronous or metachronous. Awareness of this disorder may prevent errors in diagnosis and staging. Although not identified in our patients there is a strong familial incidence of neuroblastomas in those patients with multifocal tumors.