ABSTRACT
Granular cell tumors (GCTs) are uncommon neoplasms of unknown origin that can manifest in multiple locations throughout the body. Physicians should be aware of this type of tumor presenting in unusual locations such as the larynx, particularly in pediatric patients with stridor and dysphonia. We describe an 11-year-old female with a large laryngeal mass that obstructed the majority of the laryngeal lumen. A tracheotomy was performed to secure the patient's airway, followed by a direct suspension laryngoscopy, during which the mass was excised in its entirety. The biopsied mass was histopathologically and immunohistochemically examined to confirm the diagnosis of granular cell tumor. She benefited from treatment and experienced a favorable outcome. This case report emphasizes the critical nature of properly diagnosing this type of tumor in patients who present with vocal or respiratory symptoms.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA) is a tick-borne rickettsial infectious disease. To date four cases of transfusion-transmitted anaplasmosis (TTA) have been described in the literature, and only one from leukoreduced red blood cells (RBCs). CASE REPORT: A 64-year-old patient with acute gastrointestinal blood loss was admitted to the hospital and received 5 units of prestorage leukoreduced RBCs. He was stabilized and discharged. He developed headache, fever, and chills 2 days after discharge and was readmitted. On Day 5 of his second admission polymorphonuclear leukocytes containing morulae consistent with HGA were reported in the peripheral smear. RESULTS: Samples from the recipient tested positive by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, the causative agent of HGA and a segment from one of the five donors tested positive by both serology and PCR. CONCLUSION: Leukoreduction theoretically reduces the risk of TTA but does not interdict all infections. TTA requires consideration in recipients of RBC transfusion with unexplained fever.
