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Atrophic dermatofibroma and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
1Sunnybrook Medical Centre, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
|December 1, 1987
Summary
This study identifies an uncommon presentation of dermatofibroma and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans as depressed skin lesions, particularly in women. Marked cellularity in these fibrous tumors may explain this unusual clinical appearance.
Area of Science:
- Dermatopathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Dermatofibroma and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans are common skin tumors.
- Typically, these tumors present as firm nodules.
- An atypical clinical presentation can delay diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe an unusual clinical presentation of dermatofibroma and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
- To correlate this presentation with tumor characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Case series of patients with atypical skin lesions.
- Clinical observation of lesion morphology.
- Histopathological examination of biopsy specimens.
Main Results:
- Observed patients, all female, with atrophic or depressed lesions on the chest or back.
- Biopsy punches often sank into the lesions.
- Histopathology confirmed cellular dermatofibroma or dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
Conclusions:
- A depressed or atrophic morphology is an uncommon presentation for dermatofibroma and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans.
- High cellularity of these fibrous tumors may contribute to this atypical presentation.
- Clinical suspicion for these tumors should be considered even with non-nodular lesions.