An unusual tumour causing neonatal respiratory distress

• Published in: B-ENT (Leuven) Vol. 8; no. 2; p. 149
• Main Authors: Marien, A, Maris, M, Verbeke, S, Creytens, D, Verlooy, J, Van Reempts, P, Boudewyns, A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Belgium 01.01.2012
• Subjects: Humans; Infant, Newborn; Male; Neuroectodermal Tumor, Melanotic - complications; Neuroectodermal Tumor, Melanotic - diagnosis; Neuroectodermal Tumor, Melanotic - therapy; Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn - etiology; Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn - pathology; Respiratory Distress Syndrome, Newborn - therapy; Salivary Gland Neoplasms - complications; Salivary Gland Neoplasms - diagnosis; Salivary Gland Neoplasms - therapy
• ISSN: 1781-782X

We present the case of a term neonate referred shortly after birth because of breathing and feeding difficulties. Fiber-endoscopic examination of the nasal cavity showed a pendulating mass in the nasopharynx. A complete surgical resection was performed and the baby recovered completely. Microscopic examination of the mass showed an overlying non-keratinized squamous cell lining with an atypical cell population in some fragments. Histological features were compatible with a high-grade epithelial tumour like a midline carcinoma, but a final diagnosis of a salivary gland anlage tumour was established. Flexible fiber endoscopy is the method of choice for examining the nasal passages and oropharynx in neonates with respiratory distress. Congenital salivary gland anlage tumour is a rare cause of neonatal nasal obstruction; it is benign and complete excision results in a cure. Histologically, it may mimic a malignant tumour owing to the high mitotic index.