Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in pediatric patients typically presents with recognizable symptoms such as fever, pallor, and bone pain. However, atypical manifestations can complicate the diagnostic landscape. We present a unique case of a seven-year-old male with T-cell ALL whose presenting symptom was priapism. This case underscores the need for heightened awareness among healthcare professionals regarding the diverse clinical presentations of leukemia, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach for comprehensive evaluation and management.
Our seven-year-old patient presented with priapism. A comprehensive diagnostic workup, including complete blood counts and subsequent bone marrow examination, led to the diagnosis of T-cell ALL. Given the rare presentation, a multidisciplinary team consisting of pediatric oncologists/hematologists, urologists, and other relevant specialists collaborated to formulate a tailored treatment plan. The patient received an intensified chemotherapy regimen, resulting in the resolution of priapism and hematologic improvement.
Priapism as an initial presentation of T-cell ALL in a pediatric patient is an exceptional occurrence, necessitating a specialized and collaborative approach to diagnosis and management. This case report highlights the importance of interdisciplinary coordination involving pediatric oncologists and urologists in addressing the unique challenges posed by atypical leukemia presentations. The rarity of this manifestation emphasizes the need for further research to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and establish optimal management strategies for similar cases.