Ultra early recurrence in giant congenital malignant rhabdoid tumor of spine

Background Malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT) is an aggressive tumor of infancy and childhood that rarely presents as a primary spinal or spinal cord tumor. There are only three reported cases of spinal MRT in infants. Objective We present a similar case in a 3-month male child who developed ultra-early recurrence, 4 weeks after complete excision. The diagnosis was confirmed by immunohistochemistry showing inactivation of the INI1 gene. Result Despite surgical excision and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy, these tumors have a progressive course and recurrence is a common phenomenon. Conclusion We believe that MRT must be considered in the differential diagnosis of the intra/paraspinal masses, especially in the infants.