Cervicothoracic lipoblastoma: three case reports and review of literature

Abstract

Abstract Background Lipoblastoma is a rare benign mesenchymal tumor of embryonal fat affecting mainly children below 3 years of age. It presents usually as a painless rapidly growing soft lobular mass in the extremities, trunk, and less frequently in the head-neck region. Preoperative imaging is used to assess the extent of disease and aid surgical planning. Complete surgical excision without injury to surrounding vital structures is the treatment of choice. Case presentation We report three interesting lipoblastoma cases: mediastinal lipoblastoma with airway compression and ipsilateral diaphragmatic eventration, neck lipoblastoma with intrathoracic extension, and huge thoracic inlet lipoblastoma with compression of common carotid and Lt subclavian arteries, brachial plexus, and ipsilateral diaphragmatic eventration. Complete excision of lipoblastoma mass was done via neck incision in two cases, and the third case required thoracoscopic excision of intrathoracic remnant 6 months later. All three patients had an excellent outcome. Conclusions Management of cervicothoracic lipoblastoma is a surgical challenge due to the potential for rapid growth and extension to different fascial planes; however, successful excision can be achieved via a neck approach. Complete surgical excision is essential to prevent local recurrence and improve the outcome.