Calcifying aponeurotic fibroma: a core biopsy-based diagnosis

Calcifying aponeurotic fibroma (CAF) is a very rare tumor of the extremities, which can be difficult to diagnose due to its wide cyto-architectural pattern. We herein report the clinicopathologic features of a case of CAF localized on the dorsal face of the foot in a 5-year-old male child, diagnosed by needle core biopsy. Differential diagnostic problems are discussed. The present case emphasizes that the diagnosis of CAF can be confidentially rendered on core needle biopsy if the main morphological components of this tumor are concurrently present; however, before making the diagnosis of CAF, the clinical and radiological context should be considered.