[Atypical clinical presentation of a neuroblastoma in an infant]

Abstract

A babygirl, aged six weeks, was hospitalized for rectal prolapse and isolated constipation. The investigation revealed a neuroblastoma (NB) inducing a medullar compression responsible for the sphincter disorders. NB is second among pediatric solid tumors, but is the most frequent cancer among infants. Its diagnosis is difficult because of its rarity and the variety of its symptoms. A new staging, based on imaging, has recently been proposed by the International Neuroblastoma Risk Group. With the exception of its localized, easily resectable forms, NB is best treated by chemotherapy.