Anterior Chest Wall Bulging: A Rare Initial Manifestation of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in a Child

Abstract

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has several clinical manifestations on the base of bone marrow infiltration and the extent of extra medullary involvement. Anterior chest wall bulging as an initial presentation is rare. The aim of this case report study is to present a 3.5 year-old-boy presented with anterior chest wall bulging without history of trauma since 1 month ago. Tc99m-MDP bone scan showed multifocal active bony pathology in sternum, lower thoracic and all lumbar vertebra and right sacral ala. Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy was in favor of acute precursor lymphoblastic leukemia, B cell type. Therefore, acute lymphoblastic leukemia has different initial presentation and anterior chest wall bulging can be a rare initial sign of acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children.