Melanotic neoroectodermal tumor of infancy: report of a case

Abstract

The melanotic neuroectodermal tumor of infancy (MNTI) is a rare neoplasm that affects mainly the anterior aspect of the maxilla during the first year of life. Although the MNTI is accepted as a benign tumor, it often grows rapidly, can invade bone marrow diffusely, and his recurrence rates ranges from 10% to 20%. Clinical features of the tumor are its blue or black appearance and, occasionally, an ulcerated surface. This lesion was reported under a variety of names that reflects the controversy about its origin and histogenesis.