INFLAMMATORY MYOFIBROBLASTIC TUMOR OF THE MEDIASTINUM IN A PEDIATRIC PATIENT: A RARE CASE PRESENTATION AND MANAGEMENT REVIEW

Mediastinal tumors in pediatric patients encompass a broad spectrum of pathologies, ranging from benign to malignant entities. We present a case of a 10-year-old boy who initially presented with persistent back pain followed by nocturnal coughing, asthenia, and significant weight loss over a year. Upon admission, physical examination was unremarkable except for a mediastinal opacity noted on radiographic evaluation, leading to further characterization by thoracic CT scan, revealing a sizable right paracardiac mediastinal mass. Surgical excision was performed successfully, with en bloc resection of the mass adherent to the middle and lower lung lobes, and involving regional lymph nodes. Postoperative recovery was uneventful over a two-month follow-up period.Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT), a rare entity within the mediastinum Our case underscores the challenges in diagnosing and managing mediastinal IMTs, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving clinical suspicion, diagnostic imaging, and definitive histopathological evaluation.Continued reporting and study of such cases contribute to our understanding of this rare pathological entity, guiding optimal management strategies and long-term surveillance protocols for affected pediatric patients. This case report highlights the need for heightened awareness and research efforts to improve diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic outcomes for mediastinal IMTs in pediatric populations.