Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans associated with trauma: A case report

A case of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) in a 22-year old female associated with blunt trauma of the mid-upper back is presented in the current study with a review of the literature. DFSP is a rare slow growing sarcoma of the soft tissue most commonly seen on the trunk and upper extremities with a low to intermediate grade malignant potential, high chance of local invasion and a high local recurrence rate. The literature search revealed that both non-congenital mutation as well as trauma serve a role in the development of this dermal neoplasm, but the exact mechanism by which trauma may predispose to development of DFSP is unknown. However, it seems intuitive that chronic inflammation and stimulation of the immune system at a local level may trigger the immunopathologic changes that could lead to the malignant transformation of dermal cells. Future research into the relationship between trauma and DFSP on a cellular level is required, as there appears to be a direct link present.