A Common Clinical Presentation and an Uncommon Diagnosis of Gangliocytic Paraganglioma: A Case Report

Abstract

Duodenal gangliocytic paraganglioma is an uncommon tumour with a common clinical presentation. The characteristic feature of the tumour is the presence of epitheloid, spindle and ganglion cells on routine staining. It is mostly benign, though it has tendency for malignant transformation. Presenting to you a case 39yr/Male, with complaints of malena, headache, dizziness, fatigue. This case was a diagnostic dilemma. A battery of tests performed to ascertain the diagnosis. A definitive diagnosis was not available. After multidisciplinary team approach, it was unanimously decided to subject the patient to surgery. The histopathological examination showed spindle cells, epitheloid cells and ganglion cells, thereby clinching the diagnosis of ‘Duodenal Gangliocytic Paraganglioma’. The first case was reported in 1957, however only a few hundred cases are available in the literature mostly in the form of case reports. Existing case series contain only single digit cases. Because of the rarity of the case, it is important to report thereby adding to the existing literature.