A retrospective study describing desmoid tumour characteristics and management at a private, nonprofit physical rehabilitation facility in Kampala, Uganda [Full Article]

Summary

Desmoid tumours which present to CoRSU rehabilitation hospital in Kampala are frequently managed surgically. This study compares the demographics and management of patients presenting to CoRSU hospital with that of other centres against best practice. The CoRSU database was searched for any patients diagnosed with “desmoid tumour” or “fibromatosis”. Fourteen patients with suitable histology were found. There were six males in the cohort and eight females. The median age at diagnosis was 12 (range 5-35). The most common tumour sites were the extremities, limb girdles and chest wall. Four patients had at least one recurrence, and of these all of them had a primary tumour in the extremities or limb girdles. The patient demographics at CoRSU are similar to those demonstrated in the literature. The study supported the idea that younger patients are more likely to develop extra-abdominal tumours, and older patients may present with abdominal tumours. Most patients were managed surgically, in line with current recommendations.