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Updated: May 4, 2026

Experimental Generation of Carcinoma-Associated Fibroblasts CAFs from Human Mammary Fibroblasts
Published on: October 25, 2011
Desmoid fibromatosis of the breast
Aqsa Amjad1, Kulsoom Shaikh2, Romana Idress3
1Medical College, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan.
Abstract:
Desmoid-type fibromatosis (DTF) is a rare non-metastatic mesenchymal tumour that accounts for only 0.2% of all primary breast neoplasms. This locally aggressive tumour has a high recurrence rate and primarily affects women aged 20-40 years. DTF often presents with features mimicking breast carcinoma, posing diagnostic challenges and the risk of mismanagement. We report a case of a young woman with a left-sided breast mass and skin dimpling. Initial ultrasound and core needle biopsy findings suggested adenosis and intraductal papilloma. Due to the strong clinical suspicion of malignancy, a wide local excision was performed, which confirmed DTF. The patient is currently under surveillance with a regular MRI on follow-up. This case underscores the diagnostic difficulty of DTF, and due to its rarity and limited data, optimal management is debated. Current guidelines favour a conservative 'watch and wait' strategy, with surgery reserved for symptomatic cases. Close follow-up is crucial due to the high risk of recurrence.

