Pigmented dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP; Bednar tumor) constitutes 5%-10% of all cases of DFSP and shows morphologic features that overlap with melanocytic and fibrous proliferations. We report 2 unusual cases of pigmented fibrous proliferations that demonstrate features of dermatofibromas and DFSP. The first case is that of a 19-year-old man with a 3-year history of a slowly growing pigmented lesion on the right arm. On clinical exam, the lesion was a 7-mm firm pigmented papulonodular lesion. The second case is that of a 31-year-old woman with a 4- to 5-year history of a slowly enlarging, asymptomatic "dark area" on the right buttock. On clinical exam, the lesion was a 2-cm darkly pigmented flat nodule. Morphologically, both lesions are primarily dermal proliferations of spindled cells admixed with pigmented dendritic melanocytes. The lesional cells trap collagen fibers at the periphery and there is basal cell hyperpigmentation. Adnexal structures are effaced, but significant trapping of subcutaneous fat is not present. By immunohistochemistry, both lesions show focal CD34 positivity but are negative for Factor XIIIa and melanocytic markers. Although overlap between standard dermatofibromas and DFSP is well documented in the literature, pigmented fibrous lesions with features of both entities are not well described.
We report the case of Kaposi's Sarcoma (KS) in an elderly Italian female that has slowly progressed and evolved clinically with bullous formation. The skin biopsy was diagnostic of KS, showing the typical spindle cell formations, but at the same time showing a labyrinth-like collection of vessels that correlated with the bullous nature of the clinical lesions. Immunohistochemical staining for factor VIII antigens demonstrated strong reactivity of non-neoplastic blood vessel endothelium but virtually no staining of tumor cells. This is similar to the reactivity of normal lymphatic endothelial cells and supports the notion that these labyrinth-like vessels are derived from lymphatic endothelium.
Efforts continue to expand the role of blunt liposuction cannulae in flap elevation and reconstructive surgery. Suction-assisted lipectomy to reduce the actual volume of fat tissue present may allow the further reach and compressibility of mobilized flaps. These instruments find the safest possible plane for continued undermining dissection even at great distances. Applications yet unknown await discovery.
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