The fibromatoses: CT-pathologic correlation

Although CT has been used in the evaluation of benign fibroblastic tumors (fibromatoses), data are lacking on radiologic-histopathologic correlation. In an attempt to explain the variable CT appearance of these lesions, a retrospective analysis was carried out of CT findings and histopathologic features in nine patients with fibromatoses. In three of four patients who had precontrast CT scans, the tumors were hyperdense relative to muscle, whereas in one patient the lesion was hypodense. The postenhancement appearance was variable. The pathologic specimens were analyzed and graded for collagen content, cellular content, tumor necrosis, and tumor vascularity. No consistent relationship could be established between the CT appearance of these lesions and their histologic appearance.