UNSTRUCTURED
Unlike neuroblastoma, ganglioneuroma is a rare entity in children younger than seven years of age. Further, these tumors are mostly inactive endocrinologically and present as abdominal pain or palpable mass. Unfortunately, when functional, they mimic or occasionally co-exist with pheochromocytoma. While perioperative management of pheochromocytoma has evolved a lot, very little is known for the management of functioning ganglioneuroma. Hormone secretion due to surgical manipulation and anesthesia can precipitate life-threatening complications. The risk further increases when associated with other congenital comorbidities.
Furthermore, corona pandemic as well as COVID-19 infection in the perioperative period is another new challenge. We report perioperative management and outcome of a functioning retroperitoneal ganglioneuroma in a 2-year-old child, having a ventricular septal defect, spina bifida occulta, and COVID-19. The case also highlights decision-making challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.