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The Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation

December 2020

Desmoid Tumors Characteristics, Clinical Management, Active Surveillance, and Description of Our FAP Case Series [Full Article]

Author Information

Sanchez-Mete L(1), Ferraresi V(2), Caterino M(3), Martayan A(4), Terrenato I(5), Mannisi E(1), Stigliano V(1).

(1)Gastroenterology and Digestive Endoscopy, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy. (2)Dept of Medical Oncology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy. (3)Radiology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy. (4)Division of Clinical Pathology, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy. (5)Biostatistics and Bioinformatic Unit-Scientific Direction, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.

Publication

J Clin Med

Summary

We retrospectively analyzed 13 familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) patients with desmoid tumors (DTs). A surveillance protocol consisting of scheduled follow-up evaluations depending on tumor location and tissue thickening, abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan/Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allowed prompt intervention in 3/11 aggressive intra-abdominal DTs, while sparing further interventions in the remaining cases, despite worrisome features detected in three patients. Moreover, we identified a possible predictive marker of tumor aggressiveness, i.e., the "average monthly growth rate" (AMGR), which could distinguish patients with very aggressive/life-threatening tumor behavior (AMGR > 0.5) who need immediate active treatment, from those with stable DTs (AMGR < 0.1) in whom follow-up assessments could be delayed. Surveillance protocols may be a useful approach for DTs. Further studies on larger series are needed to confirm the usefulness of periodic CT scan/MRI and the value of AMGR as a prognostic tool to guide treatment strategies.

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