Abdominal Aggressive Fibromatosis: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Features

Abstract

Desmoid tumours are rare soft tissue tumours developed from myofibroblasts. They usually infiltrate into adjacent muscle bundles and are characterised by the absence of metastatic potential. However, a high local aggressiveness is seen with a high rate of recurrence after surgical excision. We hereby attempt to present a series of patients with desmoid tumours and review treatment options and management strategies. Ten tumours occurred in the abdominal wall, five in the mesentery, and one was presacral tumour. The mean diameter of the tumour was 6 cm (range, 2.3-40 cm). Associated Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) was found in five patients. The margin of surgical resection was healthy in five patients. During follow up period, two patients returned with recurrence of tumours.

Keywords

• desmoid tumours
• oncology
• surgery