In December 2023, a baby boy was born with a congenital tumor in the neck area, accounting for 1/3 of his body. Doctors at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City discovered the tumor during a routine check-up when the mother was 31 weeks pregnant. A fetal ultrasound and MRI scan revealed that the tumor measured 6×6 cm, with the potential to compress the thoracic cavity.
As a result, doctors decided that a cesarean section would be necessary to deliver the baby safely. The baby weighed 3.4 kg at birth and had a tumor size of 10×20 cm, equivalent to the size of a newborn’s head. After birth, the baby experienced complications such as bloated stomach and inability to eat or have bowel movements due to intestinal obstruction.
Emergency surgery was performed to relieve the obstruction and ensure proper circulation in the digestive tract. Subsequent surgeries were performed to address the tumor, which was pressing on the neck and chest area, causing respiratory and functional challenges. In January, the tumor was successfully removed with careful consideration given to minimizing damage to blood vessels and nerves. By April, the baby had recovered well from surgeries and was able to go to the toilet independently.
Lymphomas are common birth defects that often develop in fetal stage or young children. The cause of these diseases is not fully understood but early intervention and surgical correction can lead to positive outcomes for patients like this baby boy.
According to Vietnam’s Ministry of Health, many children born with birth defects each year require specialized medical intervention for healthy outcomes.
In conclusion, this case highlights how important it is for expectant mothers to receive regular prenatal care during pregnancy and how early intervention can make all the difference for babies born with congenital tumors or other birth defects.
