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My Child Has:
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Hamartoma
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The term hamartoma refers to any abnormal growth that is made up of the same tissue from which it grows, but there are too many cells and their cellular structure varies slightly. Studies seem to indicate that a hamartoma occurs when the tissue in the growth did not develop completely. Hamartomas can occur throughout the body, but are often found in the head and neck, particularly around the ears. If hamartomas occur in multiple sites throughout the body, their presence is called Cowden's disease.
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Although the exact cause of hamartomas remains unknown, there does seem to be a tendency for them to occur within families.
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Common symptoms of a hamartoma in the head or neck include:
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- swelling or lump in the head or neck
- pain in the chin, neck or face
- hoarseness
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The symptoms of a hamartoma vary widely and may resemble other medical conditions. Always consult your child's physician for a diagnosis.
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In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination that include examination of the throat and neck, diagnostic procedures for a hamartoma may include:
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- ultrasound (also called sonography) - a diagnostic imaging technique which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.
- computerized tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan) - a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.
- magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.
- biopsy - a simple surgical procedure by which a physician removes a small sample of affected body tissue so that it can be studied on a cellular level to identify the cause of the symptoms
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Specific treatment for a hamartoma will be determined by your child's physician based on:
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- your child's age, overall health, and medical history
- the extent of the disease
- your child's tolerance for certain medications, procedures, or therapies
- how your child's physician expects the disease to progress
- your opinion or preference
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Surgical removal is used to treat hamartomas.
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Once a tumor is removed, there should be complete recovery, depending on the size and location of the growth. However, sometimes the tumor may recur and require additional surgery.
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