Pediatric atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor in the cauda equina with
rapid tumor progression: A case report and review of the literature
Abstract
Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) rarely occur in the cauda
equina; thus, the clinical behavior and optimal treatment remain
unclear. A 9-year-old boy presented with a rapidly progressing
intradural extramedullary tumor at the L2–5 level, underwent tumor
resection, and was diagnosed with AT/RT. His gait disturbance improved
postoperatively, and he received adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
In 5 months of follow-up, recurrence was not observed. Although
extremely rare, AT/RT should be included in the differential diagnosis,
as it requires prompt therapeutic intervention. Safe resection with
minimal functional impairment, followed by postoperative chemoradiation,
can lead to tumor control and improve neurological function.