Van, 50, experienced severe back pain accompanied by a high fever, prompting her to visit a provincial hospital. There, doctors discovered a tumor in the retroperitoneal space, anterior to her spine. She was then transferred to Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City for treatment. Doctor Nguyen Anh Dung, Head of the Department of Thoracic and Vascular Surgery at the Center for Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, noted a ganglioneuroma measuring 8x6x4.3 cm. The tumor was situated close to the aorta and was compressing a spinal nerve, though its exact nature was initially unclear.

Ganglioneuroma is a rare type of nerve tumor, with an incidence rate of approximately one in 1,000,000 people. It originates from sympathetic ganglia and commonly appears in the abdomen, posterior mediastinum, or adrenal glands. While certain risk factors are associated with the condition, such as genetic syndromes, a history of neuroblastoma, or early exposure to radiation and toxins, Van's case presented no identifiable cause, genetic predisposition, or related risk factors.

Given the tumor's size, its proximity to vital structures, and signs of nerve invasion, doctors opted for open surgery to ensure complete removal. This approach was necessary to prevent the tumor from further compressing paraspinal nerve roots, which could lead to chronic pain, numbness and weakness in the lower limbs, and restricted mobility. The surgical team meticulously dissected the tumor from the iliac vascular bundle, inferior vena cava, ureter, pancreas, kidney, and other retroperitoneal structures. After controlling the tumor's blood supply to minimize bleeding, Doctor Dung and his team successfully removed the entire mass.

One day after surgery, Van's back pain resolved completely, and she resumed normal eating and daily activities. She was discharged five days later. Subsequent histopathological examination confirmed the tumor to be a benign ganglioneuroma.

Doctor Dung (right) and the surgical team removing the tumor from the patient. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

According to Doctor Dung, ganglioneuroma symptoms are often vague when the tumor is small, making early detection challenging. As the tumor grows and begins to compress or invade adjacent organs, patients typically experience symptoms such as: constipation, bloating, abdominal pain, back pain, or changes in bowel habits (when abdominal nerves are compressed); or acute hypertension (if the adrenal gland is affected).

To help prevent ganglioneuroma, doctors recommend a scientific and balanced diet rich in green vegetables, root vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting exposure to radiation also contribute to reducing the risk factors for nerve tumors. Individuals should undergo regular health check-ups or seek medical attention at the first sign of suspicious symptoms to ensure early detection and timely treatment.

Thu Ha

*Patient's name has been changed