Malignant triton tumor of the infratemporal fossa

J Craniofac Surg. 2009 Jul;20(4):1282-6. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0b013e3181ae180b.

Abstract

Malignant triton tumor is a very aggressive type of sarcoma that comprises rhabdomyoblasts and malignant Schwann cells. It is a different entity from malignant schwannoma, characterized by their aggressiveness and poor prognosis. Head and neck location is frequent, and early diagnosis and complete resection followed by radiation therapy is important for long-term survival. However, the therapeutic plan should be individualized, taking into account the location and size of the primary tumor. The use of adjuvant chemotherapy and molecular therapies should be considered in the treatment of these tumors. We report an unusual presentation of a malignant triton tumor located in the infratemporal fossa, describing its clinical and pathologic features, and we try to update the knowledge in the management of these tumors, including the use of molecular therapies.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biopsy
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Endoscopy
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Hamartoma / diagnosis*
  • Hamartoma / pathology
  • Hamartoma / therapy
  • Humans
  • Skull Base Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Skull Base Neoplasms / pathology
  • Skull Base Neoplasms / therapy
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Young Adult