Updates on abdominal desmoid tumors

Abstract

Desmoid tumor is a monoclonal, fibroblastic proliferation arising in musculoaponeurotic structures. This connective tissue hyperplasia infiltrates locally, recurs frequently after resection but does not metastasize. Abdominal desmoid occurs sporadically, in association with some familial syndromes and often represents a clinical dilemma for surgeons. The enigmatic biology and anatomical location of abdominal desmoids make treatment recommendations difficult. This distinct pathological entity is reviewed with a specific focus on aetiology and management.

Intra-abdominal desmoid tumor mimicking locoregional recurrence after colectomy in a patient with sporadic colon cancer: Report of a case

“…The role of imaging is to defi ne the degree of extension to local structures and to establish the tumor relationship to the neurovascular structure. 15 As our patient had no clinical or familial signs of FAP, locoregional recurrence of colon cancer was the assumed diagnosis. Although systemic chemotherapy before surgical resection might have been a treatment option, we considered that surgical resection to confi rm pathology was mandatory before the induction of systemic chemotherapy.…”

Unusual presentation of desmoid tumor in the small intestine: a case report

“…Despite complete resection with negative microscopic margins, desmoid tumors have recurrence rate of about 40% [1,22,23]. It is therefore suggested that surgery should be performed only when absolutely necessary [9].…”

Sporadic Intra-Abdominal Desmoid: A Rare Presentation as a Hepatic Mass

“…Individuals in the age group of 15–60 years can be affected; desmoids are rare in the young and in the elderly [6–8], more common in women than in men [2], and have no significant racial or ethnic predilection.…”

“…Intra-abdominal desmoids are often observed in FAP (3.5–32%) and Gardner's syndrome or following abdominal trauma (surgical or nonsurgical) [6]. The association between antecedent trauma and the development of desmoids may be related to a possible molecular connection between wound-healing processes and fibroproliferative disorders of mesenchymal tissue [9].…”

“…The association between antecedent trauma and the development of desmoids may be related to a possible molecular connection between wound-healing processes and fibroproliferative disorders of mesenchymal tissue [9]. Development of desmoids in patients taking oral contraceptives and its association with pregnancy have been reported [6]. …”