Adrenal ganglioneuroma in a pediatric patient: A case report

Gallegos R.; Perez W.; Lopez J.; Anconeyra M.; Ramos A.; Vasquez E. · Journal of Pediatric Surgery Case Reports (2026) · DOI: 10.1016/j.epsc.2026.103294

Resumen

Introduction Ganglioneuroma is a rare benign tumor derived from neural crest cells and belongs to the spectrum of neuroblastic tumors. It is most commonly located in the retroperitoneum and adrenal gland and is usually asymptomatic until it reaches a large size. Case presentation We report the case of a 7-year-old female presenting with acute periumbilical abdominal pain associated with nausea and mild abdominal distension. She was initially managed conservatively; however, due to recurrence and increased pain intensity, further imaging studies were performed. Abdominal ultrasound and contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a right adrenal mass measuring approximately 8 cm, with cystic features, non-functioning, and causing mass effect on the liver and adjacent kidney. The patient underwent right adrenalectomy via exploratory laparotomy, revealing a solid, vascularized tumor without invasion of major vessels. In the postoperative period, she developed arterial hypertension and transient secondary hypercortisolism, which were managed medically. Histopathological examination confirmed ganglioneuroma without malignant features. The clinical outcome was favorable. Conclusion Ganglioneuroma, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of retroperitoneal masses. Complete surgical resection is the treatment of choice.