Background:

Neuroblastoma is the most common malignant tumor in the first year of life and the most common extracranial solid tumor in childhood. Only 1% of cases present with cutaneous metastases characterized by subcutaneous bluish nodules. We report the case of an infant with a left adrenal neuroblastoma in whom skin metastases were the main symptom.

Case report:

Two-month-old female infant with no relevant history for the current condition. The infant presented disseminated dermatosis affecting the head in the cervical and occipital region, abdomen, right thigh and left foot. Dermatosis was characterized by subcutaneous nodules, solid, well limited, < 1 cm, bluish color that appeared at 7 days of life in the right upper quadrant, with progressive growth, asymptomatic. A biopsy of a nodule was performed, which reported the presence of small cells with a dense hyperchromatic nucleus, scarce cytoplasm, arranged in nests. Immunohistochemistry was positive for chromogranin and specific neuronal enolase. Findings were consistent with cutaneous neuroblastoma metastasis. An assessment and approach by pediatric oncology were requested, reporting disease stage 4 and initiating the corresponding treatment.

Conclusions:

Pediatricians and pediatric dermatologists are the first to attend to children with a skin lesion. We must consider that skin metastases may appear prior to or simultaneously with the diagnosis of a primary tumor. Therefore, we should carry out a correct approach in order to improve the prognosis and the quality of life of the patient.