Synovial sarcoma leading to a paraesophageal abscess in a child

BACKGROUND: Synovial sarcoma (SS) is an uncommon malignant neoplasm arising from primitive pluripotential mesenchyme primarily affecting the soft tissues of the extremities. Rarely other locations are involved, including the mediastinum. CASE REPORT: After treatment for mediastinal SS by surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, an 11-year-old boy developed an esophageal stricture and fistula, the latter resulting in a paraesophageal abscess. Management of the esophageal stricture and fistula required a multi-disciplinary approach. We report our experience with the management of this difficult complication, as well as a brief review of the literature on SS. CONCLUSIONS: Rare conditions, particularly those with unusual complications, present therapeutic challenges requiring a multi-disciplinary team approach. Reporting experiences with difficult cases can benefit providers faced with similar problems in the future.