Radiologic-pathologic correlation from the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. Inflammatory fibroid polyp

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pathology
• Surgical Oncology

Background:

• Inflammatory fibroid polyps (IFPs) are rare mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract.
• They typically present as solitary, benign-appearing lesions in the stomach.

Observation:

• IFPs can be challenging to differentiate from other gastric lesions, including adenocarcinoma, hyperplastic polyps, adenomas, and leiomyomas, based on gross morphology alone.
• Microscopic examination reveals a characteristic inflammatory infiltrate within the mucosal stroma, often with a significant eosinophilic component.

Findings:

• The hallmark of IFPs is a distinctive inflammatory stromal reaction.
• Eosinophils are frequently prominent within this inflammatory infiltrate, aiding in diagnosis.

Implications:

• Accurate differentiation of IFPs from malignant neoplasms is crucial for appropriate patient management.
• Understanding the distinct histopathological features of IFPs facilitates correct diagnosis and treatment planning.
• This lesion is histologically distinct from eosinophilic granuloma found in the lung or bone.