Melanotic Neuroectodermal Tumor of Infancy (MNTI) – A case report

Abstract

MNTI is a rare dysembryogenic tumor of infancy. It is a benign neoplasm usually seen in the first 6 months of life. The predominant site of origin is the pre-maxilla and the maxilla. It has a rapid expansile growth which manifests with feeding difficulty. The tumor arises from the neural crest cells. Histological examination reveals typical biphasic population of cells with deposits of melanin pigment. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) study helps in confirming the diagnosis. It has a locally aggressive course with high recurrence rate. Malignant transformation and metastatic spread is extremely rare. Wide excision of the tumor is the preferred treatment. Thorough follow-up is recommended for a period of 1 year. Early detection and proper surgery decreases complications with favourable outcome. A case report of this tumor affecting a 5-month old male child with involvement of the right maxillary antrum is being presented here. This case is reported for its rarity, and classical clinico-pathological findings.

Melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy: A rare case report

“…In the present case, IHC positivity for HMB45 and NSE indicates melanocytic and neuroblastic differentiation of the tumor cells, respectively, thus confirming the diagnosis of MNTI. [ 5 6 13 ]…”