Desmoid tumor natural history, complications, and prognosis

Desmoid tumor Microchapters
Home
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Desmoid tumor from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
CT
MRI
Other Imaging Findings
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Surgery
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Case Studies
Case #1

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Faizan Sheraz, M.D. [2]

Overview

If left untreated, desmoid tumor produces few symptoms early in the course. Common complications of desmoid tumor include progression to agressive fibromatosis, involvement of intra abdominal viscera, and metastasis. The prognosis varies with the associated disease of desmoid tumor. Desmoid tumor associated with FAP has the least favorable prognosis.

Natural history

• If left untreated, desmoid tumor produces few symptoms early in the course.

Complications

Common complications of desmoid tumor include:

• Progression to aggressive fibromatosis
• Involvement of intra abdominal organs
• Metastasis

Prognosis

• Desmoid tumors have become an important cause of morbidity and mortality due to increasing use of prophylactic colectomy in FAP patients
• Desmoids when become massive and inoperable, can cause death in approximately 11% of FAP patients post-colectomy surgery
• Due to gradual progression to desmoids, 60% of FAP patients remain alive for 10 years after the diagnosis