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[Desmoid tumor and Gardner syndrome]
F J Imana1, A Nasr, C Aguilera
1Service de Radiologie, Hôpital Erasme, Bruxelles, Belgique.
Journal Belge De Radiologie
|January 1, 1991
Summary
A desmoid tumor was diagnosed in a patient with Gardner's syndrome. Imaging techniques like CT scans confirmed the abdominal mass, with laparotomy providing final confirmation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Gardner's syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by numerous adenomatous polyps in the colon and numerous non-epithelial tumors.
- Desmoid tumors, also known as aggressive fibromatosis, are neoplasms of connective tissue that can occur sporadically or in association with Gardner's syndrome.
Observation:
- A patient with Gardner's syndrome presented with a desmoid tumor in the left lower abdomen.
- Computed tomography (CT) revealed a heterogeneous mass with specific attenuation values before and after contrast injection.
- Radiographic examination of the small bowel and sonography were used as complementary diagnostic tools.
Findings:
- CT demonstrated a heterogeneous abdominal mass (23-72 HU native, enhancing to 123-172 HU post-contrast), detailing its extent and dimensions.
- Small bowel radiography confirmed no involvement of the small intestine.
- Laparotomy was performed, confirming the diagnosis of a desmoid tumor.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis and staging of desmoid tumors in Gardner's syndrome patients are crucial for effective management.
- Multimodality imaging, including CT and radiography, plays a vital role in the diagnostic workup of desmoid tumors.
- Surgical confirmation remains essential for definitive diagnosis and treatment planning.