Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans in the parotid gland--a case report

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Pathology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare, low-grade malignant skin tumor.
• Recurrence of DFSP, particularly in unusual locations like the parotid gland, is uncommon.
• Understanding the histiogenetic origin of DFSP is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of recurrent dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans in the parotid gland.
• To discuss the histiogenetic origin of this tumor in the context of the reported case.
• To contribute to the literature on DFSP in non-cutaneous locations.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 50-year-old Nigerian male with a parotid gland tumor.
• Histopathological examination of the recurrent tumor.
• Review of current literature on dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans and its origins.

Main Results:

• A recurrent dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (also known as storiform fibrocytic histiocytoma) was diagnosed in the parotid gland.
• The tumor exhibited characteristic histopathological features of DFSP.
• The case provides an example of DFSP recurrence in an unusual anatomical site.

Conclusions:

• Recurrent dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans can occur in the parotid gland, presenting a diagnostic challenge.
• The histiogenetic origin of DFSP, likely from dermal fibroblasts, is supported by this and other cases.
• This case underscores the importance of considering DFSP in the differential diagnosis of parotid gland tumors, especially with a history of skin lesions.