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Elastofibroma dorsi: ultrasound pattern in three patients
F M Solivetti1, D Bacaro, A Di Luca Sidozzi
1Operative Unit for Imaging Diagnostics, I.R.C.C.S. Dermophisilopathological Hospital San Gallicano and Santa Maria, I.F.O., University of Rome Tor Vergata, Policlinico Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy. solivetti@tiscalinet.it
Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research : CR
|April 1, 2004
Summary
Elastofibroma dorsi, a rare benign tumor, can be effectively diagnosed using ultrasound. This imaging technique, combined with fine needle biopsy, offers a reliable and cost-effective screening method for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Elastofibroma dorsi is a rare, benign tumor predominantly affecting females, characterized by fibrous and adipose tissue.
- Typically located subscapular, it is often bilateral, though its true incidence may be underestimated due to limited reporting.
Observation:
- This study presents three cases of elastofibroma dorsi diagnosed and monitored using ultrasound, color Doppler, power Doppler, and fine needle aspiration biopsy.
- Advanced imaging like CT and MRI were employed in some cases, alongside contrast-enhanced ultrasound (Levovist).
Findings:
- Ultrasound revealed elastofibroma dorsi mimicking surrounding muscle tissue, lacking distinct cleavage planes or specific vascularity, presenting a coarse pattern.
- CT and MRI showed a layered fatty tissue pattern. The tumor was challenging to delineate from adjacent tissues on all imaging modalities.
Implications:
- Ultrasound, particularly with Doppler, is proposed as a primary, cost-effective screening tool for elastofibroma dorsi, with fine needle biopsy confirming diagnosis.
- Non-surgical management with clinical and ultrasound follow-up is feasible for elastofibroma dorsi.