Duodenal gangliocytic paraganglioma with lymph node metastasis

Abstract

Gangliocytic paraganglioma is a rare tumor that occurs most commonly in the second portion of the duodenum. It is characterized by its triphasic cellular differentiation: epithelioid neuroendocrine cells, spindle cells with Schwann cell differentiation, and ganglion cells. Most gangliocytic paragangliomas are considered benign and are amenable to local excision. However, to our knowledge, 23 cases with lymph node metastasis have been reported, 1 case of bone metastasis, and 2 cases of liver metastases. Predictive factors that have been suggested for lymph node metastasis include size (larger than 2 cm), young age, and tumors exceeding the submucosal layer. Our objective was to review the clinical features, the histopathologic characteristics, and the differential diagnosis of gangliocytic paraganglioma and to discuss the value of the predictive factors for lymph node metastasis.