In late 2023, a baby boy was born with a congenital tumor in the neck area that accounted for 1/3 of his body. The mother, 32 years old, was just 31 weeks pregnant when the tumor was discovered during a routine check-up at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City. A fetal ultrasound and MRI scan revealed a tumor measuring 6×6 cm, with the potential to compress the thoracic cavity.
Due to the size and potential risks associated with the tumor, doctors decided that a cesarean section would be necessary to deliver the baby safely. The baby was born weighing 3.4 kg with 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 the surgeries and was able to go to the toilet independently. Lymphomas such as this one often develop in young children or in fetal stage and can lead serious health issues if not diagnosed early and treated promptly. The Ministry of Health in Vietnam reports a significant number of children born with birth defects each year requiring specialized medical intervention for healthy outcomes.
The story of this baby serves as an example of how early intervention can make all the difference in treating congenital disorders like this one. With access to specialized medical care, even babies born with significant health issues can overcome their challenges and live long healthy lives.
