A rare case of malignant granular cell tumor of the cheek in a 16-year-old child: a case report

Abstract

Introduction and importance: Granular cell tumors (GCTs) are uncommon soft tissue tumors, predominantly benign lesions. Approximately 50% occur in the tongue, with a peak incidence in the fifth and sixth decades of life. However, in this case, a rare presentation of GCTs on the cheek of a 16-year-old young female, including a review of the literature. Methods: The medical records and histopathological slides of the case were retrospectively reviewed. This work has been reported based on Surgical CAse REport (SCARE) criteria. Case presentation: A 16-year-old female presented with a non-painful exophytic and pigmented cheek lesion that is rapidly growing. A primary concern was expressed as cosmetic in nature, a biopsy of the mass was taken, and histopathological findings showed a malignant tumor, mostly consistent with GCTs. She was recommended to have a total excision of the mass. During follow-up, facial MRI findings indicate granulation tissue versus recurrent/residual tumor at the site of surgery, without any evidence of cancer metastasis or spread. Clinical discussion: GCT is a tumor of Schwann cells, which is mostly benign with a 2% risk of malignant transformation. The peak incidence of this tumor is around the age of 50, and it is uncommon in young individuals. Clinically, GCT presents as a single, asymptomatic dermal or subcutaneous, brown-red nodule or papule, which grows slowly with diameter ranging from 0.5 to 3 cm. The definitive treatment for both benign and malignant GCTs is sufficient local excision with safe margins. Conclusion: GCT is an extremely rare tumor, with a peak incidence of fifth and sixth decay of age, which usually appear in the tongue (50% of cases); however, in this case, we present a 16-year-old female with a cheek mass diagnosed as GCT. In short, we think that GCT should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses of solitary facial masses at young ages.