Published online Oct 10, 2015. doi: 10.5306/wjco.v6.i5.179
Peer-review started: February 8, 2015
First decision: May 14, 2015
Revised: June 8, 2015
Accepted: June 18, 2015
Article in press: June 19, 2015
Published online: October 10, 2015
A 16-year-old man had aswelling over the anterior aspect of the proximal third of the tibia for 1 year, which was peanut size initially and progressively increased to its present size of 10 cm × 8 cm. He underwent fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) twice during this period and reported aspindle cell sarcoma. Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a malignancy of the connective tissue surrounding the nerves. Previously, MPNST was also known as neurofibrosarcoma, malignant schwannoma, andneurogenic sarcoma. We are reporting this case for its rarity and peculiar mode of presentation. FNAC/core biopsy can be used as an effective tool to achievethe correct pathological diagnosis.
Core tip: In cases of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor of the tibia, fine needle aspiration cytology/core biopsy can be used as an effective tool to achieve the correct pathological diagnosis. In such cases, en bloc resection is the treatment of choice. Adjuvant radiotherapy/chemotherapy plays a vital role in achieving a good outcome.