De Virgilio-Salgado L, Torres-Lugo NJ, Olivella G, Watson-Pérez JM, Ramírez N, Bibiloni-Rodríguez J. Myoepithelial tumor in the popliteal area: A diagnostic dilemma.
Int J Surg Case Rep 2022;
92:106884. [PMID:
35231742 PMCID:
PMC8886036 DOI:
10.1016/j.ijscr.2022.106884]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction and importance
Myoepithelial tumors are under-recognized neoplasms that could be difficult to identify due to their rarity and limited comprehension. Their diverse morphology, varied cytologic features and heterogenous immunohistochemical characteristics create a significant diagnostic challenge.
Case presentation
We report the case of a 72-year-old-male patient who received conservative treatment during one year for a popliteal mass on the right knee that showed synovial hyperplasia (benign findings) at initial open tissue biopsy. New symptoms of popliteal area enlargement and discomfort required a second incisional biopsy to reach the diagnosis of a soft tissue myoepithelial tumor through tissue analysis and immunohistochemical staining.
Clinical discussion
The myoepithelial tumors represent a medical dilemma due to their heterogenic features requiring high level of suspicion and adequate immunohistochemical markers for their diagnosis.
Conclusion
Orthopaedic surgeons should be aware of the atypical presentation of these rare neoplasms to provide an early diagnosis and adequate management.
Consider myoepithelial tumor within the differential of a soft tissue mass.
Immunohistochemical markers are essential for diagnostic confirmation.
Surgical resection with negative margins remains the mainstay of treatment.
There is limited evidence regarding radiotherapy or chemotherapy effectiveness.
This case highlights the deceiving nature and an unusual location of a myoepithelial tumor.
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