[Effect of transarterial chemoembolization for recurrent desmoid tumor - a case report]

Desmoid fibromatosis is classified as a benign soft tissue tumor regardless of its local invasive behavior and its, local recurrence rate is 57-85% after local resection. A 19 y/o male patient with post-operative recurrence of a desmoid tumor in the shoulder was initially treated by arterial embolization; however, no improvement of symptoms was obtained. As second-line treatment, 20 mg of epirubicin, 50 mg of cisplatin and 250 mg of 5-FU were infused to tumor-related arteries and embolization was performed with a super absorbent polymer microsphere. After a single session of treatment, reduction of tumor size and improvement of symptoms were achieved. The same treatment was repeated three times without major complications. Considerable reduction of tumor was obtained after treatment. Chemo-embolization should be considered for the postoperative recurrence of desmoid fibromatosis, in order to prevent loss of function and maintain a high QOL for the patient.