Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the gastroesophageal junction in childhood.

We report an unusual case of an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor arising at the gastroesophageal junction in a 14-year-old girl. The bland histologic appearance with concurrent infiltration into adjacent structures made diagnostic interpretation difficult, but suggested a neoplastic process. A literature review was undertaken to address diagnostic and management issues raised in this case. Although the anatomic location was unusual, clinical, gross, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical data substantiated the diagnosis of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor. The bland histologic appearance was consistent with the most widely accepted view of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor as a low-grade neoplasm. Wide surgical excision was performed. This is considered the preferred treatment given the potential risk of recurrence and aggressive behavior, most frequently noted with extrapulmonary disease. Although inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor represents an heterologous spectrum of benign to malignant neoplas...