Paraganglioma and pheochromocytoma are rare tumors originating from Chromaffin cells: pheochromocytoma from within the adrenal gland and paraganglioma from the sympathetic chain in the retroperitoneum. While many are clinically silent, both classically present with hyperadrenergic symptoms. We present a case of a patient with an immense retroperitoneal mass found to be a clinically silent paraganglioma. The unusual size and presentation of the tumor as well as its undetermined genetic origin give a unique perspective into this rare tumor.

Biodegradable temporizing matrix (BTM) is a synthetic polymer used to promote new tissue growth in full-thickness wounds by providing a framework for additional tissue coverage of a new fascial closure, demonstrating its potential for use in recent incision closure and wound healing. While a case study on a pediatric patient with deep soft tissue friction burns exists, there are no reports on BTM utilization immediately following the closure of a surgical excision. This case report describes the successful use of BTM in promoting wound healing and skin graft incorporation in a 19-month-old female patient with severe scalding burns and a recent exploratory laparotomy. Following an excision of the burn wounds and closure of the surgical incision, BTM was secured over the incision site, and a split-thickness skin graft was applied using the RECELL system. Despite the initially limited blood flow around the incision, the BTM facilitated additional tissue coverage of a new fascial abdominal closure and vascularization, thus enabling successful graft incorporation and incision healing. This case highlights the untapped potential of BTM in supporting wound healing and skin grafting over recently closed incisions, expanding its application beyond traditional use in full-thickness wounds.

The introduction of antiretroviral therapy has improved survival of people with HIV (PWH). However, morbidities that accompany aging and the added burden of antiretroviral therapy on bone metabolism are growing concerns with treatment and improved survival. While a few studies have been done among PWH examining bone density and risk of fractures, the association with osteonecrosis is less studied. PWH have been reported to have osteonecrosis involving the hip joint, shoulder joint, knees, and ankles. Most cases of osteonecrosis associated with HIV infection involve the femoral head, but the involvement of the jaw is rare. We report a case of osteonecrosis of the jaw in a patient who has had HIV for more than 10 years.

Endoscopic variceal band ligation (EVBL) is a key therapy for the management of esophageal varices in patients with cirrhosis, but complications, though infrequent, can have significant clinical implications. We report a rare case of a 76-year-old woman with metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease cirrhosis who developed esophageal obstruction followed by a severe esophageal stricture after EVBL. Initial symptoms included dysphagia and chest pain, which led to the discovery of complete esophageal obstruction secondary to sloughing mucosa and detached bands on endoscopy. After endoscopic removal of the obstructing material, the patient initially had improvement in symptoms, but these symptoms recurred with repeat endoscopy, demonstrating a severe esophageal stricture requiring serial dilations. This case underscores the importance of vigilance in recognizing and managing two rare complications of EVBL, esophageal obstruction and stricture development, to improve patient outcomes.