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Metastasizing cellular dermatofibroma. A report of two cases
M I Colome-Grimmer1, H L Evans
1Department of Pathology, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030, USA.
The American Journal of Surgical Pathology
|November 1, 1996
Summary
Metastatic cellular dermatofibroma is rare but possible. These tumors, though indolent, can recur locally and spread to lymph nodes and lungs, highlighting the need for vigilance.
Area of Science:
- Dermatopathology
- Oncology
Background:
- Cellular dermatofibroma, a common skin lesion, is typically benign.
- Metastasis from dermatofibroma is exceptionally rare, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Observation:
- Two cases of metastasizing cellular dermatofibroma are presented in adult males.
- Both tumors presented as nonulcerated dermal-subcutaneous nodules and showed characteristic fibrohistiocytic cells in a storiform pattern.
- Recurrences and metastases, including to lymph nodes and lungs, were observed over several years.
Findings:
- Histological analysis confirmed cellular dermatofibroma with features of metastasis.
- Alternative diagnoses, such as angiomatoid malignant fibrous histiocytoma, were excluded based on specific histological criteria.
- Risk factors for metastasis may include larger tumor size, high cellularity, and local recurrence.
Implications:
- This study demonstrates that cellular dermatofibromas can rarely metastasize, behaving in an indolent manner.
- Early detection and monitoring are crucial for patients with risk factors, such as local recurrence.
- Further research is needed to understand the precise mechanisms and long-term behavior of metastatic dermatofibromas.