Centrally-located pulmonary hamartoma diagnosed in a 16-year-old boy presenting with chronic chest pain: a case report

Abstract

Pulmonary hamartomas are the most common benign tumors of the lung. They are usually diagnosed incidentally while evaluating for other conditions. These tumors have been shown to be uncommon below the age of 25 years. We report a case of a 16-year-old male who presented with chronic chest pain and was histologically confirmed to have pulmonary hamartoma. The tumor was successfully resected. This is the first case of hamartoma to be reported in our country, and the atypical age at presentation together with the tumor’s position makes it more unique. In conclusion, although very rare, pulmonary hamartomas can occur in young age with the central location. Clinically, the presentation is usually non-specific and the diagnosis is mostly incidental while investigating other conditions. There is a need to increase awareness among clinicians on hamartomas to improve early treatment for this rare disease in the adolescents.