Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour in a 5-year-old child – a case report and review of the literature

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour is an uncommon tumour of intermediate malignant potential. Its aetiology is still unclear. It occurs predominantly in children and young adults. This report presents a case of pulmonary inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour in a 5-year-old girl. The patient had a history of recurrent respiratory tract infections. A chest radiograph and computed tomography chest scan showed a round mass in the lower lobe of her left lung. Thoracoscopic marginal excision of the tumour with an Endo-GIA stapler device (TYCO healthcare) was performed. Histological examination confirmed the final diagnosis of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour. Postoperative recovery was uncomplicated and the patient was discharged 6 days after surgery. Round masses located in the lungs are very rare in children and the possibility of myofibroblastic tumour as well as metastatic lesions should be taken into consideration in such cases. Thoracoscopic excision is the best option in distally located lesions.