Intra-Abdominal and Abdominal Wall Desmoid Fibromatosis

Desmoid fibromatosis arising from caecum: an overview of the challenges in diagnosis and treatment

Desmoid fibromatosis is a rare subtype of soft tissue neoplasms known for its locally aggressive behaviour and fibrotic consistency. While these tumours can arise in various anatomical sites, their occurrence within the colon is exceptionally rare and poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We present a case of a female patient in her 30s with no significant medical history who presented with vague gastrointestinal and urinary symptoms. Imaging studies revealed a sizeable abdominal mass, initially raising uncertainty regarding its origin. Subsequent exploratory laparotomy revealed a desmoid fibromatosis involving the muscularis propria of the caecum, prompting a right hemicolectomy. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis, and the patient underwent a successful resection with negative margins. This case underscores the importance of individualised treatment plans and long-term surveillance in managing colonic desmoid tumours for optimal outcomes and disease-free survival.

Precision oncology: The role of minimally-invasive ablation therapy in the management of solid organ tumors

Solid organ tumors present a significant healthcare challenge, both economically and logistically, due to their high incidence and treatment complexity. In 2023, out of the 1.9 million new cancer cases in the United States, over 73% were solid organ tumors. Ablative therapies offer minimally invasive solutions for malignant tissue destruction in situ, often with reduced cost and morbidity compared to surgical resection. This review examines the current Food and Drug Administration-approved locoregional ablative therapies (radiofrequency, microwave, cryogenic, high-intensity focused ultrasound, histotripsy) and their evolving role in cancer care. Data were collected through a comprehensive survey of the PubMed-indexed literature on tumor ablation techniques, their clinical indications, and outcomes. Over time, emerging clinical data will help establish these therapies as the standard of care in solid organ tumor treatment, supported by improved long-term outcomes and progression-free survival.

Exploring Head and Neck Fibromatosis: A Case Series and Literature Review

This study aimed to retrospectively review the clinical data, management protocols, clinical outcomes, and literature review of patients diagnosed with head and neck fibromatoses. This case series aims to present and discuss seven cases of rare head and neck fibromatosis. The study design involves retrospective analysis of medical records, radiological imaging, and histopathological reports of the included cases. Ethical approval was obtained from the relevant Institutional Review Board. The results of the study reveal that individuals diagnosed with fibromatosis had a wide age range, starting from 6 to 58 years, with the median age being 44.3 years. Out of the 8 patients, 5 (62.5%) were females and 3 (37.5%) were males. The maxilla was found to be the most common subsite of origin in the head and neck area, followed by the masseter and temporal fossa. At the time of diagnosis, 2 (25%) patients were found to have unresectable disease. Multidisciplinary management therapies, including surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal, targeted therapy, and radiotherapy, were used. Out of the 6 patients who underwent surgery, 5 (83.3%) experienced tumor recurrence. In conclusion, the retrospective analysis underscores the complexity of managing fibromatoses of the head and neck region; complete tumor resection is not achievable always due to the inherent challenges, complex anatomy, and proximity of vital structures in the head and neck. Adjuvant strategies including radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormonal therapy have demonstrated efficacy in disease management. The rarity of these tumors necessitates the development of standardized treatment protocols to guide clinical practice effectively. Moving forward, collaborative efforts are crucial to enhance our understanding of fibromatoses and refine therapeutic strategies for improved patient outcomes.

Adenomatous Polyposis Coli Gene Mutations, Risk Factors, and Long-term Outcomes Associated With Desmoid Tumors in Patients With Familial Adenomatous Polyposis After Colectomy in Japan

GOALS

To clarify the characteristics of desmoid tumors in Japanese patients with familial adenomatous polyposis after colectomy.

BACKGROUND

Few comprehensive reports have been published on desmoid tumors in Asian patients with familial adenomatous polyposis.

STUDY

This retrospective study included the data of 81 patients with familial adenomatous polyposis who underwent surgery between 1978 and 2021. The adenomatous polyposis coli gene mutation sites, risk factors, and long-term outcomes associated with desmoid tumors in Japanese patients with familial adenomatous polyposis after colectomy were analyzed.

RESULTS

No association was observed between the gene mutation sites and desmoid tumor development in 40 patients who underwent genetic analyses. The rate of desmoid tumor development was 30.3% in 66 patients. Multivariate analysis revealed that age below 32 years at colectomy (hazard ratio = 5.491, 95% confidence interval 1.820-16.50, P < 0.001) and familial adenomatous polyposis-related malignancies other than colorectal cancer (hazard ratio = 5.574, 95% confidence interval 2.075-14.98, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for desmoid tumor development following colectomy. The 10-year disease-specific survival and overall survival rates for desmoid tumors were 92.9% and 76.9%, respectively. The median surveillance duration was 90 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Adenomatous polyposis coli gene mutation sites alone were not considered a factor for delaying or avoiding colectomy to prevent desmoid tumors in Japanese patients with familial adenomatous polyposis. The timing of colectomy and careful surveillance should be considered for managing patients at a high risk of developing desmoid tumors. Desmoid tumors in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis did not significantly impact prognosis, and pharmacological treatments are important for disease control.

Incidental discovery of unilateral hydronephrosis unveiling psoas major desmoid-type fibromatosis in a 24-year-old male: A case report with a 5-year follow-up

RATIONALE

Desmoid-type fibromatosis (DTF), also known as aggressive fibromatosis, is a rare neoplasm originating from the fascial or musculoaponeurotic tissues. While benign and characterized by slow growth, it exhibits local aggressiveness and lacks specific clinical characteristics. However, in a considerable percentage of patients, it could be asymptomatic and discovered by accident during routine clinical examinations. Only a few cases of DTF arising from the psoas major muscle have been reported in the medical literature.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 24-year-old male, asymptomatic and without significant personal or family medical history, was diagnosed with grade 2 hydronephrosis by abdominal ultrasonography during a routine physical examination. This diagnosis was made 15 days after undergoing uncomplicated open-heart surgery to repair an atrial septal defect.

DIAGNOSIS

Intravenous pyelogram revealed hydronephrosis with dilation of the pelvicalyceal system. Ureteroscopy ruled out any intrinsic lesions of the ureter. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography identified a 3.5 × 2 × 5.2 cm mass in the retroperitoneum, closely associated with the psoas muscle and enveloping the ureter adjacent to the iliac artery. Postoperative pathological analysis confirmed a definitive diagnosis of sporadic DTF.

INTERVENTIONS

The patient underwent exploratory abdominal surgery, during which the tumor was resected without any intraoperative complications.

RESULTS

After close monitoring over a 5-year follow-up period, which included periodic physical examinations, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasonography, no local recurrence was detected.

LESSONS

Achieving an accurate preoperative diagnosis presents a challenge in cases involving retroperitoneal tumors originating from the psoas major muscle and encasing the ureter. However, the insertion of a double J stent is deemed a crucial step in the surgical process, facilitating the dissection and isolation of the ureter from the tumor while preserving kidney function.

Risk factors for local recurrence of upper extremity desmoid tumors

INTRODUCTION

Upper extremity (UE) desmoid tumors are locally aggressive neoplasms with high recurrence rates. Our study sought to analyze the demographics and treatment strategies of UE desmoid tumors and identify risk factors for recurrence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 52 patients with histologically confirmed UE desmoid tumors treated at our institution between 1990 and 2015 was conducted. Survival was assessed using the Kaplan-Meier method and the Cox proportional hazards model was used for risk factor analysis.

RESULTS

For the entire cohort, median age was 40 (29-47) years, 75% were female, and 48% had local recurrence. The median tumor size was 45 (15-111) cm3 on imaging. Twenty-two patients had a previous resection. The most common treatments were surgery alone (50%) and surgery with adjuvant radiotherapy (21%). Tumor size ≥5 cm and tumor volume ≥40 cm3 on imaging were associated with increased recurrence (p = 0.006 and p = 0.005, respectively). Age and sex were not associated with local recurrence. Patients with a tumor size ≥5 cm were 2.6 times more likely to present with recurrence. At the 10-year mark, a lower local recurrence-free survival was seen in patients with tumors ≥5 cm (72.2% vs. 36.3%, p = 0.042) or ≥40 cm3 (67.2% vs. 32.7%, p = 0.034).

CONCLUSION

In our study, only tumor dimensions appeared to modify recurrence risk.

Surgical techniques and effectiveness of laparoscopic resection of abdominal wall desmoid-type fibromatosis and defect reconstruction: a single-center retrospective analysis

PURPOSE

Although the treatment of abdominal wall desmoid-type fibromatosis (DF) has evolved over the past decades, surgical treatment remains an important approach. Previously, surgeries for abdominal DF were mostly performed by laparotomy, which involves massive dissection and significant trauma. Here, we report our single-center experience of the laparoscopic management of abdominal wall DF in young female patients.

METHODS

The clinical data of nine patients diagnosed with abdominal wall DF during January 2020-April 2022 at the Qilu Hospital of Shandong University were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent laparoscopic resection of abdominal wall DF and immediate abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) with mesh augmentation via the intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) technique.

RESULTS

Laparoscopic DF resection and AWR were successfully performed in all patients. The mean operation time was 175.56 ± 46.20 min. The width of abdominal wall defect was 8.61 ± 3.30 cm. Full- and partial-thickness myofascial closure and reapproximation were performed in five, two, and two patients, respectively. The average mesh size was 253.33 ± 71.01 cm2. The total and postoperative lengths of hospital stay were 11.00 ± 3.46 and 4.89 ± 2.03 days, respectively. Tumor recurred in one patient after 20 months of the resection. Nonetheless, death, herniation, or bulging were not observed in any patient during a mean follow-up of 16.11 ± 8.43 months.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic resection of abdominal wall DF and immediate AWR with IPOM mesh reinforcement is safe and reliable for young female patients. Management of such patients should be decided according to the biological behavior, size, and location of tumors.

Desmoid Fibromatosis of the Anterior Abdominal Wall in Pregnancy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

A desmoid tumor (DT) is a rare benign neoplasm arising from muscle aponeurosis, associated mostly with trauma or pregnancy. DT has an infiltrative and locally aggressive growth pattern and usually does not metastasize. However, it has a high recurrence and complication rate. When it occurs in pregnancy, the pregnancy and delivery is taken as an individual case for optimal management by physicians and midwifes, who need to be cautious in finding the optimal delivery mode for the patient, which depends on the tumor size, location, behavior, and past history. The authors report a case of 29-year-old pregnant woman who previously underwent systemic oncological treatment for a large abdominal wall desmoid tumor and became pregnant afterwards. The history of DT presented a follow-up and delivery challenge. Observational management was chosen with an elective cesarean section at week 38 + 4 of pregnancy with uncomplicated postpartum follow-up. The authors detail the clinical management and chosen therapeutic approach; chemotherapy can be a choice in the treatment options for patients with DTs, although the majority of DTs are treated surgically with subsequent mesh plastic. Moreover, the authors provide a systematic review of the literature focused on the treatment management of DTs in pregnant women during pregnancy and the postpartum period, as pregnancy-associated desmoid tumors are a specific condition, where the optimal management is not well established, despite some guidelines for non-pregnant patients.

Role of Surgery in the Treatment of Abdominal Desmoid Fibromatosis: A Single-Center Experience

With increasing multidisciplinary management and emphasis on masterly inactivity for abdominal fibromatosis (AF), the indications for surgery are evolving. This retrospective analysis looked at outcomes following surgery. Two groups of patients who underwent surgery for AF between November 2011 and August 2021 were identified-intra-abdominal fibromatosis (IAF) and abdominal wall fibromatosis (AWF). All treatment-related details and follow-up data were gathered from a database and analyzed. Sixteen patients underwent surgery for IAF. R0 resection (wide margin) was achieved in 13 patients (81.2%). Over a median follow-up period of 51.7 (range 5-103) months, 5 patients developed recurrence (31.2%). The conditional probabilities of OS and DFS at 5 years were 80% (95% CI 58.7-100) and 42.2% (95% CI 20.3-87.8), respectively. Ten patients with AWF underwent surgery. R0 resection was achieved at 70% (7/10). Over a median follow-up period of 54.8 (range 12.9-96.7) months, 2 patients (20%) developed recurrence. The conditional probabilities of OS and DFS at 5 years were 88.9% (95% CI 70.6-100) and 77.8% (95% CI 54.9-87.8), respectively. Surgery has a vital role in the management of AF presenting with progressive/symptomatic lesions, especially when watchful waiting is not an option, and must be considered as one of the first-line active therapy. Timely curative surgery avoids disease progression and its morbidity with acceptable recurrence rates and provides durable remissions.

Recurrent Abdominal Aggressive Fibromatosis with Incapacitating Hip Contracture - A Case Report

Introduction

Aggressive fibromatosis (AF) is a fibroblastic locally aggressive neoplasm arising from the musculoaponeurotic stroma and has no metastatic potential. The high tendency of recurrence despite complete surgical resections makes the management of the condition onerous. It can result in significant morbidity with major functional loss due to the destruction of adjacent vital structures and organs. AF with hip flexion contracture is a very rare occurrence.

Case Report

A 20-year-old male presented with recurrent abdominal AF with severe hip flexion contracture and an unresectable tumor. He underwent deformity correction and he maintains the full correction achieved along with very good functional improvement at the end of 4 years.

Conclusion

This case demonstrates that in a case of AF with an unresectable tumor, good functional outcome can be obtained; it can be maintained over the short term following contracture release with soft-tissue coverage surgery along with chemotherapy with sorafenib.

Desmoid tumours (extra-abdominal), a surgeon's nightmare

Desmoid tumours are a rare fibroblastic proliferation of monoclonal origin, arising in deep soft-tissues. Histologically, they are characterized by locally aggressive behaviour and an inability to metastasize, and clinically by a heterogeneous and unpredictable course. Desmoid tumours can occur in any anatomical site, but commonly arise in the limbs. Despite their benign nature, they can be extremely disabling and sometimes life-threatening, causing severe pain and functional limitations. Their surgical management is complex and challenging, due to uncertainties surrounding the biological and clinical behaviour, rarity, and limited available literature. Resection has been the first-line approach for patients with a desmoid tumour but, during the last few decades, a shift towards a more conservative approach has occurred, with an initial 'wait and see' policy. Many medical and regional forms of treatment are also available for the management of this condition, and others have recently emerged with promising results. However, many areas of controversy remain, and further studies and global collaboration are needed to obtain prospective and randomized data, in order to develop an appropriate shared stepwise approach.

Current management of benign retroperitoneal tumors

Benign retroperitoneal tumors (BRT) represent a rare group of heterogeneous diseases. The literature lacks high-quality evidence about the optimal management of BRT, and most of the information available takes the form of case reports or case series. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of current management strategies for adult patients with BRT. A literature search using PubMed indexed articles was conducted and BRT were classified into five different biological subgroups: 1) lipomatous tumors, 2) smooth muscle tumors, 3) peripheral nerve sheath tumors, 4) myofibroblastic tumors, and 5) others. Tumors that are primarily pelvic in origin were excluded. Despite the significant heterogeneity of the disease, several generic considerations have emerged and can be applied to the management of BRT. Specifically, the risk of misdiagnosing a BRT with another pathology such as retroperitoneal sarcoma is notable. When encountered, suspected BRT should therefore be referred to a specialized sarcoma center. Multidisciplinary tumor boards, present at these centers, have a pivotal role in managing BRT. The decision of whether to offer surgery, nonsurgical treatment or a "watch-and-wait" approach should be made after multidisciplinary discussion, depending on tumor histology. Moving forward, collaborative research efforts dedicated to BRT remain crucial in gathering evidence and knowledge to further optimize patient care.

Retroperitoneal desmoid-type fibromatosis: a case report

Desmoid-type fibromatosis (DF) is a rare subtype of soft tissue sarcomas that most commonly occurs in the anterior abdominal wall. When occurring in the retroperitoneum, DF is usually part of familial syndromes while only rarely sporadic. This makes it imperative to report any instance of experience with DF and the oncological outcomes of the different approaches to management. We report two cases of sporadic and severe DF occurring in the retroperitoneum at our institution.

Case presentation

The first case is a male that presented with urinary obstruction symptoms and underwent surgical resection of the tumor that extended into the left kidney. The second case is a female with a history of recurrent desmoid tumors of the thigh and was incidentally diagnosed with retroperitoneal DF on imaging. She underwent tumor resection and radiotherapy; however, the tumor recurred with urinary obstruction symptoms that required another surgical resection. Histopathological characteristics and radiological imaging of both cases are described below.

Clinical discussion

Desmoid tumors often recur, thus significantly influencing the quality of life which is reflected in one of our cases. Surgery remains a mainstay treatment, and both cases presented in this report required surgical resection of the tumors as symptomatic and curative measures.

Conclusion

Retroperitoneal DF is a rare entity, and our cases add to the scarce literature available on the topic, which may well contribute to the formulation of practice-changing recommendations and guidelines focused on this rare variant of DF.

Desmoid-type fibromatosis in the setting of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma: a case report of two rare diseases

BACKGROUND

Desmoid-type fibromatosis (DTF) is a rare benign lesion that usually arises from the abdominal wall or extremities and rarely from the mesentery or intrabdominal organs. Malignant peritoneal mesothelioma is also a rare, yet aggressive disease. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of desmoid-type fibromatosis in the setting of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma.

CASE PRESENTATION

An early 30-year-old female was referred to our center for large intra-abdominal mass concerning for recurrent malignant peritoneal mesothelioma after previous cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy and adjuvant chemotherapy. Further investigation revealed a large mesenteric mass, which was resected en bloc with the cecum and terminal ileum. Pathologic findings confirmed a surprising diagnosis of desmoid-type fibromatosis.

CONCLUSIONS

No adjuvant therapy was offered to this patient due to negative tumor margins; however, close follow-up will be provided for recurrence of both malignant peritoneal mesothelioma and desmoid-type fibromatosis, which can be differentiated in the future via biopsy in this patient.

The dilemma in management of desmoid tumour: A case report

Introduction

Desmoid tumours are rare benign tumours. The tumours may develop sporadically or they may be linked to familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) in Gardner’s syndrome.

Aim

This article highlights a young lady with an intra-abdominal desmoid tumour that manifested as an acute abdomen and we discuss our management strategy.

Case study

A 24-year-old lady with a known FAP who had undergone a panproctocolectomy with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis and total thyroidectomy, later was complicated with acute abdomen for symptomatic desmoid tumour. Computed tomography of the abdomen showed a large intraperitoneal heterogenous mass with small bowel displacement and was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. An exploratory laparotomy and en-bloc resection of the tumour with an end ileostomy were performed.

Results and discussion

Intra-abdominal desmoid tumours usually present as a painless slow-growing mass, however, in severe form, it can cause bowel ischemia, intestinal obstruction, or deterioration of function in the ileoanal anastomosis, among post total colectomy. Surgery is indicated upfront in specific clinical scenarios namely complications (occlusion, perforation, or bleeding) or major cosmetic issues.

Conclusions

Desmoid tumour, despite being benign, is challenging to manage due to its compressing nature. As a key point, the diagnosis of a desmoid tumour should be suspected and followed up closely in patients with a previous history of FAP in combination with extracolonic manifestation.

Giant desmoid tumour mimicking recurrent uterine myoma in a nulliparous young Nigerian: a case report

BACKGROUND

Desmoid tumors are rare lesions. Although they demonstrate tumor characteristics, such as infiltrative growth and tendency towards local recurrence, they lack the ability to metastasize. To date, the cause of desmoid tumors is unknown. They can occur in both sexes, but predominant slightly in women, including nulliparous women, of reproductive age, but mostly during and after pregnancy.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 36-year-old nulliparous Nigerian woman presented with a large desmoid tumor of the anterior abdominal wall, mimicking recurrent leiomyoma. At presentation, she had a painless abdominal mass for 1 year, which was first noticeable as a small induration that progressively increased in size. The patient had a previous surgical history of open myomectomy for symptomatic fibroids of 3 years duration, prior to presentation. Treatment comprised a complete excision of the tumor with a wide margin and partial omentectomy and the anterior abdominal wall closed in layers, though without prosthesis. The patient subsequently developed incisional hernia.

CONCLUSIONS

Large desmoid tumors may be misdiagnosed or mistaken for uterine leiomyoma or other abdominal or pelvic tumors. Attention should therefore be paid to detailed patient history and systematic clinical evaluation. To guard against incisional hernia associated with surgical resection of huge desmoid tumors, mesh reconstruction is recommended.

Intraabdominal sporadic desmoid tumors and inflammation: an updated literature review and presentation and insights on pathogenesis of synchronous sporadic mesenteric desmoid tumors occurring after surgery for necrotizing pancreatitis

Sporadic intra-abdominal desmoid tumors are rare and known to potentially occur after trauma including previous surgery, although knowledge of the underlying pathogenetic mechanism is still limited. We reviewed the recent literature on sporadic intraabdominal desmoids and inflammation as we investigated the mutational and epigenetic makeup of a case of multiple synchronous mesenterial desmoids occurring after necrotizing pancreatitis. A 62-year-old man had four mesenteric masses up to 4.8 cm diameter detected on CT eighteen months after laparotomy for peripancreatic collections from necrotizing pancreatitis. All tumors were excised and diagnosed as mesenteric desmoids. DNA from peripheral blood was tested for a multigene panel. The tumour DNA was screened for three most frequent β-catenin gene mutations T41A, S45F and S45P. Expression levels of miR-21-3p and miR-197-3-p were compared between the desmoid tumors and other wild-type sporadic desmoids. The T41A CTNNB1 mutation was present in all four desmoid tumors. miR-21-3p and miR-197-3p were respectively upregulated and down-regulated in the mutated sporadic mesenteric desmoids, with respect to wild-type lesions. The patient is free from recurrence 34 months post-surgery. The literature review did not show similar studies. To our knowledge, this is the first study to interrogate genetic and epigenetic signature of multiple intraabdominal desmoids to investigate potential association with abdominal inflammation following surgery for necrotizing pancreatitis. We found mutational and epigenetic features that hint at potential activation of inflammation pathways within the desmoid tumor.

Giant retroperitoneal liposarcoma treated with radical conservative surgery: A case report and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RLPS) is a rare malignant tumor of the connective tissue and usually grows to a large size, undetected. Diagnosis is currently based on collective findings from clinical examinations and computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging, the latter of which show a fat density mass and possible surrounding organ involvement. Surgical resection is the main therapeutic strategy. The efficacy and safety of further therapeutic choices, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, are still controversial.

CASE SUMMARY

A 61-year-old man presented with complaint of a large left inguinal mass that had appeared suddenly, after a slight exertion. Ultrasonography revealed an omental inguinal hernia. During further clinical examination, an enormous palpable abdominal mass, continuing from the left inguinal location, was observed. CT revealed a giant RLPS, with remarkable mass effect and wide visceral dislocation. After multidisciplinary consultation, surgical intervention was performed. Subsequent neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy were precluded by the mass’ large size and retroperitoneal localization, features typically associated with non-response to these types of treatment. Instead, the patient underwent conservative treatment via radical surgical excision. After 1 year, his clinical condition remained good, with no radiological signs of recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Conservative treatment via surgery resulted in a successful outcome for a large RLPS.

Surgical management of abdominal desmoids: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Desmoid tumours are benign fibromatous tumours arising from dysregulated myofibroblast proliferation within musculoaponeurotic structures. They can occur sporadically but more commonly are associated with genetic syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis [1] (FAP). Mutations in either the Wnt, β-catenin or APC genes are 'key' triggers for the development of these tumours [5]. Classically, these tumours do not metastasise; however, they are associated with significant morbidity and mortality due to their infiltrative pattern and/or local invasion. Historically, surgical resection was the cornerstone of treatment. There remains paucity of data regarding outcomes following the surgical management of abdominal desmoid tumours in terms of success, recurrence and morbidity.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review was to assess the current evidence for surgical management of abdominal desmoid tumours in terms of success, recurrence and morbidity.

METHODS

A systematic search of articles in PubMed, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library databases was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines for the period from January 2000 to November 2020.

RESULTS

Twenty-three studies were included, of which, 749 patients had surgical resection (696 for primary and 53 for recurrent desmoids), 243 patients (18.8%) were medically managed and 353 patients (27.3%) underwent surveillance. Median follow-up was 51.4 months (range 1-372). Six-hundred and ninety-six of the 749 resections (92.9%) underwent primary desmoid resection, with the remaining 53 (7.1%) undergoing resection for recurrence. One-hundred and two surgically managed patients (19%) developed a (re)recurrence, with mesenteric involvement the commonest site for recurrence (55%). When comparing recurrence post-surgery to progression following medical therapy, there was a trend towards better outcomes with surgery, with 25% of surgical patients having a recurrence versus 50.5% having progression with medical therapy [OR 0.40 (95% CI 0.06-2.70), p = 0.35]. Major morbidity following surgery was 4.4% (n = 33) with 2% (n = 14) mortality within 30 days of resection.

CONCLUSION

The management of desmoids has considerable heterogeneity. Surgical resection for abdominal desmoids remains a valid treatment option in highly selective cases where negative margins can be obtained, with low major morbidity and/or mortality.

Transarterial Chemoembolization with Doxorubicin Eluting Beads for Extra-Abdominal Desmoid Tumors: Initial Experience

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of doxorubicin-eluting bead transarterial chemoembolization (DEB-TACE) as an alternative local treatment for extra-abdominal desmoid tumors (DTs).

METHODS

Eleven adult female patients (mean age = 40.1 years) with symptomatic, progressively enlarging extra-abdominal DTs were determined ineligible for cryoablation after failing observation or systemic therapy and treated with a single session doxorubicin DEB-TACE. Six rectus sheath, one chest wall, three axilla, and one upper extremity DTs were included. The median follow-up was 155.0 ± 52.3 days. Treatment response was assessed by MRIs and maximum visual analog scale (VAS).

RESULTS

All procedures were technically successful without immediate complications. The average size of treated DT was 161.8 ml (range: 28.3-420.0 ml). The mean doxorubicin dose was 13.3 mg/m². All patients experienced skin changes which improved over time without treatments. No higher-grade adverse events were observed. Initial one-month follow-up MRI demonstrated partial to near-complete tumor necrosis, ranging from 1.4 to 97.6% (mean: 36.4%). Additional follow-up revealed a further reduction of overall tumor volume (mean: - 38.1%, p < 0.0001) and maximum VAS (mean: - 2.6, p = 0.0026) in 10 out of 11 patients (90.9%). After the first month, the residual tumors exhibited continued volume reduction in 10 out of 11 patients (mean:  - 16.5%, p = 0.0230). There was also a significant decrease of T2 signal intensity within residual tumor on the latest follow-up (mean:  - 29.6%, p = 0.0217), suggesting a reduction in tumor cellularity.

CONCLUSION

DEB-TACE may be a safe and effective local treatment alternative in DT patients.

Sporadic Desmoid Tumours: Systematic Review with Reflection on the Role of Cryoablation

Desmoid tumours (DT) are rare locally infiltrative soft-tissue tumours which do not metastasise. DT arise sporadically or are associated with familial syndromes, with different clinical and genetic patterns. In recent years there has been an increasing therapeutic role of cryoablation for the treatment of sporadic DT. Therefore, in this present review, we: (a) summarize all the main epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of sporadic DT that are relevant to an interventional radiologists' practice; (b) present the results of a systematic review that has been conducted with the intent of highlighting the main clinical outcomes available thus far with cryoablation; and (c) discuss the current and future potential applications of cryoablation in this field. Five studies were included in the systematic review accounting for 146 patients. Only 18.5% patients received cryoablation as a first-line treatment. Overall, the volume of the DT undergoing cryoablation was very large (mean total DT volume of 237 cm³). Major complications were noted for 13.3-30% patients and following 2.4-6.7% interventional sessions. The rates of complete tumour response ranged between 0 and 43.3%. 1- and 3-year local progression-free survival rates were 85.1-85.8%, and 77.3-82.9%, respectively. Complete pain relief was reported in 40-66.7% symptomatic patients. In conclusion, cryoablation is currently proposed as a therapeutic strategy to very large DT, which is recognized to be associated with an increased procedure-related morbidity and reduced rates of complete tumour response. Proposing cryoablation as the first-line treatment may improve these clinical outcomes.

A cost analysis of sorafenib for desmoid tumors

INTRODUCTION

A recent randomized trial demonstrated that sorafenib improved progression free survival (PFS) in patients with desmoid tumors despite many patients experiencing stable disease or spontaneous regression without treatment. Utilizing these trial data, we performed a cost analysis of sorafenib efficacy through two years of treatment.

METHODS

Current Medicare Part D rates for sorafenib were utilized (dose 400 mg/day, cost $309/day). Annual costs per progression and objective response were calculated. Radiologic progression and response were defined using RECIST criteria. Patients with disease progression were separately analyzed in two groups: both clinical and radiologic (CAR), and radiologic alone.

RESULTS

84 previously randomized patients were analyzed (placebo: 35, sorafenib: 49). At one year, sorafenib was associated with a 43% absolute risk reduction (ARR) of CAR progression and number-needed-to-treat (NNT) of 2.3 patients/year, costing $259,406. At two years, ARR was 48% and NNT of 2.1 patients/year, costing $473,697. When evaluating only patients with RECIST defined radiologic progression, sorafenib patients experienced ARR of 13.9% with NNT 7.2 and estimated costs of $812,052 at one year. Two-year ARR was 17.5% with NNT 5.7 and estimated costs $1,285,052. Sorafenib patients experienced improved RECIST partial response rates at 1 and 2 years of 14.7% and 14.3%, with NNT 6.8 and 6.9, and costs of $766,938 and $1,556,433; respectively.

CONCLUSION

For the treatment of desmoid tumors, Sorafenib led to improved PFS, but at a significant cost per patient. Favorable RECIST outcomes were less likely and costlier. Patients should be informed of possible benefits of treatment versus potential financial burden.

Surgical management of a giant abdominal wall desmoid tumour

Desmoid tumours are clonal fibroblastic proliferations in soft tissues, characterised by infiltrative growth and local recurrence, but not metastasis. Various treatment strategies for desmoid tumours exist, varying from observation, medical and systemic therapy to radiotherapy and surgery. A 25-year-old woman with a background of familial adenomatous polyposis was referred with an enlarging abdominal desmoid tumour measuring 40×40×40 cm despite repeated radiofrequency ablation, surgical debulking and hormone therapy. The patient had a two-stage operation. The first stage involved excision of the desmoid tumour with full-thickness abdominal wall. The abdominal wall was not closed, and a topical negative pressure seal was applied. After 2 days, she underwent the second stage: reconstruction of the abdominal wall defect with a large porcine mesh which was covered with anterolateral thigh flaps. Postoperative complications included ileus and a fall which required further surgery. The patient was discharged 1 month after the first operation. Abdominal MRI scans were performed at 3 and 7 months postdischarge and showed no recurrence of diseaseBackground.

Giant abdominopelvic desmoid tumour herniated trough perineum: a case report

Desmoid tumours are deep aggressive fibromatoses that usually arise in the soft tissues of the limbs or the abdominal wall. Intra-abdominal localisation, rarely occurs and their treatment may be challenging. When necessary, surgery must be personalized to what is achievable in terms of margins while preserving functional outcomes. This condition is illustrated herein with the case of a 40-year-old female presenting an unusually large sporadic desmoid tumour with abdominal, pelvic and perineal involvement. Resection was performed without organ involvement through a combined perineal approach. Tumour resection was macroscopically completed except in the perineum, where the tumour was left (R2 resection) to preserve anal sphincter. Adjuvant treatment with tamoxifen was given to achieve local control. The hormonal treatment was well tolerated, and no recurrence was observed after 36 months of follow-up.

Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR) guidelines 2020 for the Clinical Practice of Hereditary Colorectal Cancer

Hereditary colorectal cancer (HCRC) accounts for < 5% of all colorectal cancer cases. Some of the unique characteristics commonly encountered in HCRC cases include early age of onset, synchronous/metachronous cancer occurrence, and multiple cancers in other organs. These characteristics necessitate different management approaches, including diagnosis, treatment or surveillance, from sporadic colorectal cancer management. There are two representative HCRC, named familial adenomatous polyposis and Lynch syndrome. Other than these two HCRC syndromes, related disorders have also been reported. Several guidelines for hereditary disorders have already been published worldwide. In Japan, the first guideline for HCRC was prepared by the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR), published in 2012 and revised in 2016. This revised version of the guideline was immediately translated into English and published in 2017. Since then, several new findings and novel disease concepts related to HCRC have been discovered. The currently diagnosed HCRC rate in daily clinical practice is relatively low; however, this is predicted to increase in the era of cancer genomic medicine, with the advancement of cancer multi-gene panel testing or whole genome testing, among others. Under these circumstances, the JSCCR guidelines 2020 for HCRC were prepared by consensus among members of the JSCCR HCRC Guideline Committee, based on a careful review of the evidence retrieved from literature searches, and considering the medical health insurance system and actual clinical practice settings in Japan. Herein, we present the English version of the JSCCR guidelines 2020 for HCRC.

Management of serious complications in intra-abdominal desmoid-type fibromatosis

Background

Desmoid fibromatosis (DF) is a rare and locally infiltrative monoclonal fibroblastic proliferation arising from connective tissues, with lack of metastatic potential. About 10% of all DF cases are intra‐abdominally sited. Complications in this site, due to the locally infiltrative nature of the disease, may be severe and potentially life threatening. However, data on incidence, management, and outcome of these complications are limited.

Aim

Data of patients with sporadic or FAP‐related intra‐abdominal DF treated at Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori (INT) in Milano from 2005 to 2020 who developed a serious complication during the course of their disease were retrospectively collected and analyzed with a descriptive statistics.

Methods and Results

Out of 72 intra‐abdominal DF, 8 cases were identified (M/F: 5/3, median age: 35 years, FAP‐related/sporadic: 2/6): 3 with bowel obstruction, 5 with bowel perforation. In 4 cases the serious complication was the first evidence of disease; in the other 4 cases it occurred at a time interval from diagnosis in the range of 4–44 months (during an active surveillance program in one case and during chemotherapy in the other 3 cases). A surgical treatment was feasible and successful in 5 cases. In 3 surgically unmanageable patients, all progressing and experiencing acute complications while on chemotherapy, a non‐surgical approach with intensive supportive treatment and with a prompt change of chemotherapy regimen was implemented, being successful in two, the other patient dying due to a concomitant progressive lymphoma thereafter.

Conclusion

In this series of intra‐abdominal DF, the incidence of serious complications was 11%. Most patients were successfully treated with surgery. When surgery was deemed to be unfeasible, a conservative management with intensive supportive care and a careful choice of chemotherapy was adopted, ensuring a favorable outcome in most.

A rare case of desmoid fibromatosis of the transverse colon mimicking a perforated malignancy

Desmoid tumour of the colon is a very rare and aggressive type of intra-abdominal desmoid fibromatosis. Patients can present with a range of symptoms from a mild chronic abdominal pain to those of an acute abdomen. We present a rare case of abdominal fibromatosis that presented as a rapidly growing mass with free intraperitoneal gas. Intraoperatively however, we found a large tumour arising from the wall of the transverse colon and local necrosis. No bowel perforation was noted. The tumour was removed with a wide resection of transverse colon’s wall instead of colectomy. The histopathology reported benign fibromatosis and excluded malignancy.

Extra-abdominal desmoid tumor fibromatosis: a multicenter EMSOS study

Background

Extra-abdominal desmoid tumor fibromatosis (DTF) is a rare, locally aggressive soft tissue tumour. The best treatment modality for this patient cohort is still object of debate.

Questions/purpose

This paper aimed to (1) to compare the outcomes of DTF after different treatment modalities, (2) to assess prognostic factors for recurrence following surgical excision, and (3) to assess prognostic factors for progression during observation.

Methods

This was a retrospective multicenter study under the patronage of the European Musculoskeletal Oncology Society (EMSOS). All seven centres involved were tertiary referral centres for soft tissue tumours. Baseline demographic data was collected for all patients as well as data on the diagnosis, tumour characteristics, clinical features, treatment modalities and whether they had any predisposing factors for DTF.

Results

Three hundred eighty-eight patients (240 female, 140 male) with a mean age of 37.6 (±18.8 SD, range: 3–85) were included in the study. Two hundred fifty-seven patients (66%) underwent surgical excision of ADF, 70 patients (18%) were observed without therapy, the residual patients had different conservative treatments. There were no significant differences in terms of tumour recurrence or progression between the different treatment groups. After surgical excision, younger age, recurrent disease and larger tumour size were risk factors for recurrence, while tumours around the shoulder girdle and painful lesions were at risk of progression in the observational group.

Conclusion

Local recurrence rate after surgery was similar to progression rates under observation. Hence, observation in DTF seems to be justified, considering surgery in case of dimensional progression in 2 consecutive controls (3 and 6 months) and in painful lesions, with particular attention to lesions around the shoulder girdle.

The Role of Radiation Therapy for Symptomatic Desmoid Tumors

OPINION STATEMENT

Desmoid tumors have a variable clinical course that ranges from indolence or spontaneous regression to an aggressive pattern marked by local invasion. Up to half may remain stable or regress; watchful waiting is the preferred approach in the initial management of desmoid tumors. Symptomatic or progressive tumors or those that may affect adjacent critical structures require surgery, radiotherapy, or systemic therapy. Although radiotherapy effectively controls desmoid tumors in most cases, concerns regarding late toxicity exist. Definitive radiotherapy for macroscopic disease is indicated when a non-morbid complete surgical resection cannot be accomplished and provides similar control rates to surgery plus radiotherapy but avoids toxicity from combined-modality treatment (surgery and radiotherapy). Adjuvant radiotherapy can be considered for microscopically involved margins, particularly for recurrent cases or when a future recurrence may be challenging to treat. Large size, extremity site, and younger age are poor prognostic factors after radiotherapy. In the extremity, radiotherapy may have superior outcomes to surgery. Younger patients, especially children, are challenging to manage as they are at particular risk for late toxicity due to the number of potential years at risk. For patients under 20 years old, for whom a non-morbid complete resection is not possible, we recommend systemic therapy as the first line of treatment. Although the long-term efficacy of systemic therapy is unproven, this strategy allows additional time for growth and development prior to radiotherapy. In younger patients and those with axial desmoid tumors adjacent to critical organs, consideration should be given to using proton therapy as the dosimetric advantages may mitigate some of the toxicity associated with conventional radiotherapy.

Transverse colonic volvulus due to mesenteric fibromatosis: a case report

BACKGROUND

Colonic volvulus, a condition in which a colonic segment partially twists around its base, is the third leading cause of large bowel obstruction after colonic neoplasms and diverticular disease. However, volvulus of the transverse colon is the rarest type of large intestinal volvulus. Moreover, the occurrence of transverse colonic volvulus secondary to a benign tumor originating from outside the intestine has never been reported. We hereby report a case of transverse colonic volvulus caused by mesenteric fibromatosis.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 53-year-old female with a history of rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid tumor presented with abdominal pain for 1 day. Abdominal computed tomography revealed intestinal torsion at the hepatic flexure. Twisted and obstructed mucosa of the transverse colon was observed during colonoscopy, but no tumor invasion of the mucosal surface was detected. A solid mass of a mesenteric origin with involvement of the transverse colon was observed during surgery. The mass was diagnosed surgically as transverse colonic volvulus induced by a mesenteric tumor. Hence, the patient underwent a right hemicolectomy. Histopathological results indicated mesenteric desmoid-type fibromatosis. The postoperative recovery was uneventful, and the patient was discharged 8 days after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Although mesenteric fibromatosis is rare, this disease should be considered when managing transverse colonic volvulus resulting from nonmucosal tumors.

Management of aggressive fibromatosis

Aggressive fibromatosis or desmoid tumor is a rare disease resulting from fibroblasts which do not metastasize. However, desmoid tumors belong to low-grade malignant tumors since they have high potential to infiltrate surrounding tissues, causing high local recurrence rates and may affect surrounding organs, threatening life quality and expectancy. Although surgery, watch and wait, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, high intensity focused ultrasound, ablation techniques or several agents have all been frequently investigated for the treatment of this type of disease, none are deemed as standard therapy for high recurrence rates that have been supported by any data. The present review retrieved literature on treatment options for desmoids to summarize the latest treatment modalities and refine their efficacy, as well as their side effects, in order to provide a more comprehensive treatment reference for clinicians.

NCCN Guidelines Insights: Soft Tissue Sarcoma, Version 1.2021

The NCCN Guidelines for Soft Tissue Sarcoma provide recommendations for the diagnosis, evaluation, treatment, and follow-up for patients with soft tissue sarcomas. These NCCN Guidelines Insights summarize the panel discussion behind recent important updates to the guidelines, including the development of a separate and distinct guideline for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs); reconception of the management of desmoid tumors; inclusion of further recommendations for the diagnosis and management of extremity/body wall, head/neck sarcomas, and retroperitoneal sarcomas; modification and addition of systemic therapy regimens for sarcoma subtypes; and revision of the principles of radiation therapy for soft tissue sarcomas.

A Large Sporadic Intra-abdominal Desmoid-Type Fibromatosis in a Young Male: A Case Report

Desmoid type fibromatosis (DTF) is a rare benign tumor of connective tissue origin. While these tumors are typically not malignant, they can exhibit aggressive growth patterns causing mass effect on surrounding organs. These tumors typically present in the extremities and abdominal wall, rarely occurring in the mesentery, and abdominal organs. Due to the rarity of this tumor and the variable size and origin, it is difficult to provide exact prognosis, recurrence, and treatment efficacy regarding desmoid tumors arising from the ileocolic mesentery. We present a case of a young male with a sporadic 31 × 25 × 12 cm DTF arising from the ileocolic mesentery that was complicated by mass effect on bowel and intra-abdominal organs requiring surgical intervention. On presentation, the patient exhibited weight gain and abdominal pressure. Abdominal distension without tenderness on palpation was noted on physical examination. The tumor biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of DTF. No evidence of familial adenomatous polyposis or Gardner syndrome was identified. The tumor was surgically excised and intimately associated with the bowel requiring ileocolonic resection with primary anastomosis. At 3-months follow up, surveillance MRI showed no residual or recurrent lesion. A multi-disciplinary approach to this patient's diagnosis and treatment allowed for an accurate diagnosis, efficient treatment, and follow up plan.

A rare sporadic pancreatic desmoid fibromatosis diagnosed by endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration: Case report and literature review

Intra-abdominal desmoid fibromatosis (also known as desmoid tumor) is a rare benign but often locally aggressive infiltrative fibrous proliferation. Pancreatic desmoid fibromatosis is even rarer, with only 31 cases previously reported in the English-language literature. These tumors present a distinct diagnostic challenge due to their rarity and non-specific image findings and presentation, with most cases diagnosed as desmoid fibromatosis only after surgical resection. This report presents a rare case of pancreatic desmoid fibromatosis in a 72 year old man, who on a follow-up CT for a previously diagnosed angiomyolipoma of the kidney was found to have a 4.0 cm pancreatic tail mass. This was sampled pre-operatively by endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided fine-needle aspiration (FNA). Examination of the cytology material showed a low-grade spindle cell lesion. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) performed on FNA cell block showed the lesional cells to be positive for beta-catenin, consistent with fibromatosis. Additional mutational analysis on cell block material revealed the characteristic CTNNB1 gene mutation (T41A), confirming the diagnosis. The mass was then surgically resected and again confirmed to be desmoid fibromatosis on histopathologic examination. On review of previously published cases of pancreatic desmoid fibromatosis, most were initially suspected to be some type of pancreatic neoplasm and were not biopsied prior to surgical resection. This case suggests a potential key role for fine-needle aspiration cytology in the preoperative diagnosis of pancreatic and other intra-abdominal desmoid tumors, particularly as evidence emerges that non-surgical treatment may be a viable first option for some cases.

Does ileoanal pouch surgery increase the risk of desmoid in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis?

PURPOSE

Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) may undergo either ileorectal anastomosis (IRA) or ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) depending on the degree of rectal involvement. Desmoid tumors (DTs) may arise postoperatively. Whether IPAA is associated with a higher risk of DTs as compared with IRA remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to determine whether IPAA increased the risk of DTs by analyzing the published data that compared IRA and IPAA as the primary treatment for FAP.

METHODS

A metaanalysis was performed to analyze the published data between 1989 and 2019. IRA and IPAA were compared with respect to the incidence of DTs.

RESULTS

Eight retrospective studies with a total of 1072 patients were identified: 491 underwent IPAA and 581 IRA. There was no significant difference in the incidence of DTs between IPAA and IRA (11.81% vs. 9.47%, OR 0.95, P = 0.85). Meanwhile, the overall complication (42.97% vs. 36.76%, OR 1.32, P = 0.11), incidence of cancer (4.88% vs. 8.37%, OR 0.28, P = 0.26), and overall mortality (0.33% vs. 5.20%, OR 0.49, P = 0.53) were comparable too.

CONCLUSION

Ileoanal pouch surgery is associated with similar risk of desmoid in patients with FAP after surgery.

3D Reconstruction Model of an Extra-Abdominal Desmoid Tumor: A Case Study

In recent years, three-dimensional reconstruction (3DR) models have become a standard tool in several medical fields such as education, surgical training simulation, patient–doctor communication, and surgical planning. Postoncologic reconstructive surgery in thoracic diseases might benefit from 3DR models; however, limited data on this application have been published worldwide. In this paper, the aim was to report our experience with 3DR modeling to determine resection and plan the surgical reconstruction in a patient with a desmoid tumor of the chest wall. For a better understanding of the case study, we describe all the steps from acquiring computed tomography (CT) scans to the final 3D rendering. A 68-year-old, non-smoking man presented at our outpatient department with painless swelling of the right anterobasal chest wall. A thorax–abdomen–brain CT scan revealed homogenous solid tissue with a dense mass measuring 80 mm × 62 mm. The final 3D model was evaluated by the surgical team (three medical doctors), who found the model to be powerful. Based on the results and the accuracy of the model, the multidisciplinary team decided that the tumor was resectable. Consequently, a surgical plan based on the 3D model was developed to perform chest wall reconstruction after radical resection. The patient underwent right anterolateral thoracotomy at the seventh intercostal space, which confirmed the CT scan findings and revealed infiltration of the serratus muscle and medial portion of the diaphragm. A radical tumor en bloc resection with chest wall and diaphragm resection was performed. The full-thickness chest wall and diaphragm defects were reconstructed using two separate biological patches of a porcine dermal collagen implant (Permacol™ Surgical Implant). Postoperative X-ray revealed unremarkable findings; the patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged 6 days after surgery. This case study illustrates that 3DR models enable a personalized approach to the treatment of desmoid tumors. Therefore, this approach should be developed further and studied systematically.

Comprehensive Review of Abdominopelvic Mesenchymal Tumors with Radiologic Pathologic Correlation and Update on Current Treatment Guidelines - Part 1

Soft-tissue sarcomas are a diverse group of rare mesenchymal malignancies accounting for only 1% of all solid adult malignancies. These have been categorized in 12 broad groups by the World Health Organization (WHO) with their recent update in 2013. Majority of them lack specific imaging features serving as imaging conundrums for a radiologist. These are often large masses at presentation as they are asymptomatic or cause vague clinical symptoms. These tumors are challenging for surgeons as well as they find it difficult to achieve complete resection because of complex intra-abdominal anatomy and their close relationship with critical structures. Often, a multidisciplinary approach is required to decide on the most appropriate management for these complex cases so as to provide optimal patient care. Knowledge of the WHO classification, pathologic features and available treatment options will help the radiologist make a meaningful contribution in multidisciplinary discussions of such cases and overall patient care. Liposarcoma (well-differentiated and dedifferentiated liposarcomas), leiomyosarcoma, and gastrointestinal stromal tumor are the 3 most common primary intra-abdominal sarcomas. In part 1 of this article, general features of soft tissue sarcomas and some of the common tumors from WHO category 1-4 found in abdomen and pelvis are discussed. Part 2 will focus on common tumors from remainder of the WHO categories.

Not all abdominal masses after colorectal cancer surgery are malignant: intra-abdominal fibromatosis masquerading as recurrence

AIM

Intra-abdominal fibromatosis is an unusual mesenchymal tumour that can be locally aggressive without any metastatic potential. Fibromatosis may simulate cancer recurrence on imaging surveillance for colorectal cancer follow-up. The optimal treatment of recurrent peritoneal malignancy is cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Confirmatory biopsy of lesions suspicious for colorectal cancer recurrence may not be feasible, thereby rendering surgery the safest option. Our aim was to determine the incidence of fibromatosis in a cohort of patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC for suspected colorectal cancer recurrence.

METHODS

One hundred and seventy-one CRS and HIPEC cases were performed at our Peritoneal Malignancy Institute between February 2007 and October 2018 for colorectal peritoneal metastases and were included in a prospectively maintained database.

RESULTS

A total of 49 (29%) of 171 cases were performed for primary colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastases, whereas 122 (71%) of 171 cases were performed for suspected colorectal cancer recurrence detected on surveillance imaging after primary colorectal cancer resection. On histological analysis of the resected specimen, five (4.1%) of 122 cases undergoing CRS and HIPEC for colorectal recurrence had fibromatosis.

CONCLUSION

Fibromatosis can masquerade as colorectal cancer recurrence. In this series it occurred with an incidence of 4.1% among a cohort of patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC for probable recurrence. Surgical resection may be the only option to confirm the diagnosis and rule out malignancy.

Spontaneous regression of a sporadic intra-abdominal located desmoid-type fibromatosis

Background

Desmoid-type fibromatosis (DTF) is a rare benign proliferation of myofibroblasts with an unpredictable disease course. Treatment of intra-abdominal located DTF is difficult because of the close relationship with vital organs.

Case presentation

A healthy young male presents with an asymptomatic palpable mass in the lower right abdominal quadrant. A computed tomography shows a 10 × 7 cm² pear-shaped mass, and pathological examination revealed DTF. A watchful waiting approach was initiated, as the patient was asymptomatic and surgery would imply a significant amount of intestinal resection. After a follow-up of 2 years, the tumor has regressed spontaneously and the patient is still without symptoms.

Conclusions

DTF is a difficult to treat condition where individualized management is appropriate. An asymptomatic patient could be treated with a watchful waiting approach, even with intra-abdominal location. Thereby sparing unnecessary morbidity as the tumor can be stable for many years or even regress spontaneously.

Targeted therapy of desmoid-type fibromatosis: mechanism, current situation, and future prospects

Desmoid-type fibromatosis (DF) is a rare monoclonal fibroblastic proliferation that is characterized by locally infiltrative but rarely metastatic lesions. Tyrosine kinase and γ-secretase inhibitors are primarily used in the targeted therapy of DF. The use of these drugs, however, is mainly based on the recommendations of retrospective studies with small sample sizes. Previous studies that focused on the mechanism, efficacy, and safety of targeted therapy for DF were reviewed to provide references for clinical applications and research. The efficacy and safety of targeted therapy were compared with those of other systemic therapy options. Targeted therapy does not provide considerable advantages in efficacy and safety over other medical treatments and is usually applied after the failure of antihormonal therapies, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and chemotherapy. Further studies are required to explore the mechanism, indications, and appropriate drug dosage of the targeted therapy of DF.

En bloc resection for intra-abdominal/retroperitoneal desmoid-type fibromatosis with adjacent organ involvement: A case series and literature review

Surgical treatment for intra-abdominal/retroperitoneal desmoid-type fibromatosis (IA/RPDF) is still controversial. Studies regarding en bloc resection in IA/RPDF with adjacent organ involvement are scanty. This study aims to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of en bloc resection in IA/RPDF with adjacent organ involvement. This retrospective clinical study included 21 patients who were diagnosed with IA/RPDF and underwent tumor resection at a single center between March 2013 and June 2018. All patients included in the study underwent surgery with curative intent, and IA/RPDF with adhesive organs was removed en bloc. The safety of surgical treatment was verified by the analysis of intraoperative bleeding, postoperative morbidity and perioperative mortality. The efficacy of surgical treatment was evaluated based on the status of tumor infiltration of adjacent organs and patient follow-up results. Complete macroscopic (R0 or R1) resection was achieved in all cases. A median of 2 (range, 1-7) organs were resected. The median operating time was 300 (90-650) minutes. The median intraoperative bleeding was 300 (20-4,500) milliliters. For postoperative pathological diagnosis at our center, tumor infiltrated at least one organ in each patient. Infiltration was noted in 45 resected organs (45/57, 78.9%). Grade III-V postoperative morbidity developed in one patient (4.8%). During the follow-up, one patient developed local recurrence. No DF-related death was noted during the follow-up. The 3-year disease-free survival rate was 94.1% (95% confidence interval: 83.6-100%). Therefore, en bloc resection of the tumor and involved adjacent organs is a safe and effective treatment modality for IA/RPDF.

Breast fibromatosis, an unusual breast disease

Fibromatosis is a benign tumor that rarely affects the breast and is an unusual site for its occurrence. Whilst the definite etiology of breast fibromatosis is unclear, it may present itself following surgical trauma or silicone implant. Wide local excision with adequate safety margins is considered the standard of care. We review three cases of breast fibromatosis who were presented to and operated in the Oncology center, Mansoura universty (between April 2014 and August 2016). Two of these cases underwent wide local excision and primary closure of the defect whilst the other one was reshaped by mini latismuss dorsi flap.

Recurrent Enlarging Mesenteric Desmoid Tumor following Remote Surgical Resection

Intra-abdominal desmoid tumors are commonly associated with genetic syndromes such as familial polyposis coli. Radiological cross imaging studies such as CT and MRI are used in the preoperative work-up of such tumors. Postoperatively, CT and MRI are useful in the assessment of recurrent desmoid tumors. MRI is more accurate in tissue characterization. Where possible, surgical resection remains the standard first-line treatment. For patients where surgery is not possible, or the resection margins are not clear, other forms of treatment are possible. These include hormonal and nonhormonal options. We present a case of a recurrent sporadic intra-abdominal (mesenteric) desmoid tumor. Such an entity is rare with few cases reported in the literature. Treatment options regarding intra-abdominal desmoid tumors will be discussed.