[Objective response of desmoid fibroma to chemotherapy]

Six patients with inoperable desmoid tumors have been treated by preoperative chemotherapy. In all six cases objective response occurred and allowed conservative surgery. Objective responses included tumor softening (6/6), releasing of articular motion previously limited (3/3), and tumor size' decreasing (2/6). Few histologic modifications were seen. Such data advocates for preoperative chemotherapy in desmoid tumor when large and threatening the limb or the life of the patient.