Classification Desmoid tumor Desmoid fibromatosis, H&E stain. Banal fibroblasts infiltrate the adjacent tissue in fascicles. Mitoses may be infrequent. Desmoid tumors may be classified as extra-abdominal, abdominal wall, or intra-abdominal (the last is more common in patients with FAP). It is thought that the lesions may develop in relation to estrogen levels or trauma/operations. A 3' APC mutation is the most significant risk factor for intra-abdominal desmoid development amongst FAP patients. FAP patients presenting with an abdominal wall desmoid pre-operatively are at an increased risk of developing an intra-abdominal desmoid post-operatively. Desmoid tumours of the breast are rare. Although benign, they can mimic breast cancer on physical examination, mammography and breast ultrasound and can also be locally invasive. Even though they occur sporadically, they can also be seen as a part of Gardner's syndrome. A high index of suspicion and a thorough triple examination protocol is necessary to detect rare lesions like a desmoid tumour which can masquerade as breast carcinoma. Desmoid tumour of the breast may present a difficulty in the diagnosis especially where imaging studies are not conclusive and suggest a more ominous diagnosis.
Aggressive fibromatosis
Diffuse infantile fibromatosis
Juvenile hyaline fibromatosis
Aggressive infantile fibromatosis
Superficial acral fibromyxoma
Ossifying fibromyxoid tumour
Enchondroma
Myxoid cyst