Desmoid tumors Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is a desmoid tumor?
A desmoid tumor is a locally aggressive, benign fibroblastic neoplasm that arises from musculoaponeurotic structures and lacks metastatic potential.
What are the typical locations of desmoid tumors?
They are commonly found on the abdominal wall, intraabdominal regions, or extremities, especially in patients with prior surgery or trauma.
What syndrome is associated with desmoid tumors?
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), specifically Gardner syndrome, is associated with desmoid tumors.
What is the clinical presentation of a desmoid tumor?
Patients often present with a firm, deeply seated, painless or mildly painful mass, often with a history of prior surgical scars or trauma.
Why is surgery not always the first-line treatment for desmoid tumors?
Due to their locally infiltrative nature and potential for spontaneous stabilization, non-operative management is often preferred initially.
Why do desmoid tumors have a high recurrence rate?
They infiltrate locally and often cannot be completely excised, leading to frequent recurrence despite surgery.
What is the initial diagnostic imaging for a suspected desmoid tumor?
CT or MRI of the abdomen is typically used to assess size, depth, and involvement of adjacent structures.
What are treatment options for desmoid tumors?
Options include surgical resection, radiation therapy, or close observation; surgery is reserved for symptomatic, recurrent, or high-risk cases.
How does a dermatofibroma typically present?
A firm, hyperpigmented, mobile nodule often located on the lower extremities, usually asymptomatic and benign.
How can you distinguish a lipoma from a desmoid tumor?
Lipomas are soft, mobile, benign fatty tumors without a history of recurrence; they rarely occur deep in the fascia or muscle like desmoid tumors.
What is the typical presentation of an epidermoid cyst?
A slow-growing, dome-shaped nodule due to keratin plugging; often located on the trunk or face, not deep or recurrent.
What is a pyogenic granuloma and how does it present?
A red, dome-shaped papule that bleeds easily; often occurs after trauma or during pregnancy, not seen as a deep mass.
