Giant Darier-Ferrand dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans of the abdomen and pelvis: a case report

Background

Darier–Ferrand dermatofibrosarcoma (DFS) is a rare malignant cutaneous neoplasm characterized by local aggressiveness, high risk of recurrence, and low metastatic potential.

Case presentation

A 60-year-old Tunisian man with recurrent abdominopelvic DFS for which he had undergone multiple excisions presented with an extensive DFS that invaded the external genitals. He underwent a large excision with emasculation and thin cutaneous graft of the abdominal wall and local skin flap in the pelvis.

Conclusion

DFS is a rare yet recurrent skin tumor. Wide excision with free margins remains the cornerstone of treatment. We report a case of a giant DFS treated with wide excision and reconstructive surgery to cover the defect.

[Radiotherapy of cutaneous epitheliomas. Experience of the Jules Bordet Institute 1976 to 1985]

Radiotherapy remains the most favorable treatment of skin carcinomas. Between 1976 and 1985, 249 patients, with a total of 294 tumors, were treated in the Department of Radiotherapy. Six out of 213 carcinomas treated first by radiotherapy had a relapse which could be cured either by radiotherapy or by surgery. Sixty tumors were irradiated after relapse following surgery, or electrocoagulation. Three showed a second relapse, and none could be cured without aggressive surgery. These results confirm the usefulness of radiotherapy in the treatment of skin carcinomas and the necessity of an initial effective treatment.