Surgical Management of Melanotic Neuroectodermal Tumor of Infancy: A case Report

Abstract

Melanotic neuroectodermal tumour of infancy (MNTI) is rare, rapidly growing, pigmented neoplasm of neural crest origin. It is generally accepted as a benign tumour despite of its rapid and locally destructive growth. It primarily affects the maxilla of infants during the first year of life. Surgical excision is considered as the treatment of choice. The recurrence rate varies between 10% and 15%, and malignant behaviour has been reported in 6.5% of cases. We report a 15-month old male who presented with a 2-month history of a rapidly growing mass in the anterior. A biopsy showed melanotic neuroectodermal tumor, and complete resection with negative margins was subsequently achieved.