Indonesian Journal of Cancer
Vol. 20 No. 2 (2026): June

Initial Presentation of Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia as Orbital Myeloid Sarcoma Resembling Neuroblastom

Donytra Arby Wardhana (1. Integrated Laboratory Installation, Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 2. Department of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
Lydia Friska Malau (1. Integrated Laboratory Installation, Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 2. Department of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
Usi Sukorini (1. Integrated Laboratory Installation, Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia 2. Department of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia)
Tiarasari Nurjunievi (Integrated Laboratory Installation, Dr. Sardjito General Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background: Myeloid sarcoma (MS) is a rare extramedullary tumor composed of myeloblasts or immature myeloid cells. It is often associated with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), which is a subtype of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), but rarely presents as the initial manifestation of the disease, particularly in children. Diagnosing MS is challenging due to its rarity and clinical resemblance to other malignancies. Early identification and proper diagnostic evaluation are crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention. Case Presentation: We report a 2-year-old girl presenting with a history of a cranial mass and bilateral orbital involvement, initially suspected as neuroblastoma. Laboratory findings revealed anemia, leukocytosis with increased immature granulocytes. Bone marrow aspirate analysis demonstrated 40% promyelocytes, consistent with APL. Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of the mandibular lesion showed malignant cells, and immunocytochemical staining was positive for myeloperoxidase (MPO), confirming the diagnosis of MS. The patient was treated with all trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and the chemotherapy agent methotrexate combined with daunorubicin, leading to a favorable response.Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of considering myeloid sarcoma in the differential diagnosis of orbital masses in children, especially when accompanied by hematologic abnormalities. Early recognition and appropriate diagnostic workup, including bone marrow analysis and immunocytochemistry, are essential to establish the diagnosis of APL with extramedullary involvement and to initiate prompt, targeted therapy.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijoc

Publisher

Subject

Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology Immunology & microbiology Medicine & Pharmacology Public Health

Description

Indonesian Journal of Cancer is a peer-reviewed and open-access journal. This journal is published quarterly (in March, June, September, and December) by Dharmais Cancer Hospital - National Cancer Center. Submissions are reviewed under a broad scope of topics relevant to experimental and clinical ...