Epstein–Barr virus-associated smooth muscle tumor of the lung in a child: a case report and literature review - Report - MDSpire

Epstein–Barr virus-associated smooth muscle tumor of the lung in a child: a case report and literature review

  • By

  • Xuelian Chang

  • Qian Li

  • Changxiao Li

  • Shuaishuai Liu

  • Yuexia Bai

  • Zhongxiao Zhang

  • Jing Ma

  • May 1, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Pulmonary Smooth Muscle Tumor Linked to Epstein–Barr Virus in a Pediatric Patient

Overview

This report details a rare case of pulmonary Epstein–Barr virus-associated smooth muscle tumor (EBV-SMT) in a 10-year-old boy with suspected immunodeficiency. The diagnosis was confirmed through histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis, highlighting the importance of early recognition and intervention.

Background

Pulmonary EBV-SMT is an extremely rare neoplasm, particularly in pediatric patients with congenital immunodeficiency. Understanding its clinical presentation and management is crucial, as these tumors can lead to significant morbidity and are often associated with poor prognosis due to opportunistic infections. This case contributes to the limited literature on EBV-SMT in children, emphasizing the need for awareness among healthcare providers.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data available in the article.

Key Findings

  • The patient presented with a three-year history of persistent cough and intermittent fever.
  • Histopathological examination revealed spindle cell proliferation, initially diagnosed as myofibromatosis.
  • Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed EBV-SMT with positivity for smooth muscle actin and EBER.
  • The patient had persistently low CD4 + T-cell counts, indicating underlying immune dysfunction.
  • Management included multiple bronchoscopic interventions and regular intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.
  • Early diagnosis and a combination of local tumor control and immunomodulatory therapy are essential for managing EBV-SMT.

Clinical Implications

Detail the specific interventions and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.

Conclusion

Pulmonary EBV-SMT poses significant challenges in diagnosis and management, particularly in immunocompromised children. Continued research and clinical awareness are essential to improve outcomes in affected patients.

References

  1. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 2023 -- A Severe Airway Blockage Caused by Epstein-Barr Virus-Related Smooth Muscle Tumor in a Patient with HIV Infection
  2. the pathologist, 2023 -- A New Route to Lymphoma Diagnosis
  3. the asco post, 2025 -- Does Epstein-Barr Virus Increase Cancer Risk Among Kidney Transplant Recipients?
  4. Pathogenetic and molecular classifications of soft tissue and bone tumors: A 2024 update - ScienceDirect
  5. Posttransplant EBV-Positive Smooth Muscle Tumors in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults: A Multi-Institution Experience - PubMed
  6. Complications Related to Epstein-Barr Virus in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Case Series Analysis
  7. Pathogenetic and molecular classifications of soft tissue and bone tumors: A 2024 update - ScienceDirect
  8. Posttransplant EBV-Positive Smooth Muscle Tumors in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults: A Multi-Institution Experience - PubMed

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