Extraabdominal desmoid tumor

An extraabdominal desmoid tumor of the shoulder occurring in a middle-aged woman without Gardner's syndrome is described. Two punch biopsy specimens from the tumor were initially interpreted as representing scar tissue; a third incisional biopsy specimen demonstrated the characteristic features of a desmoid tumor. Because desmoid tumors are locally aggressive, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to minimize morbidity and mortality. Typical clinical and histologic findings characteristic of an extraabdominal desmoid tumor are described, and treatment options are reviewed.