Spontaneous regression of a sporadic intra-abdominal located desmoid-type fibromatosis

Summary

Treatment of intra-abdominal located desmoid-type fibromatosis(DTF) is difficult because of the close relationship with vital organs. A healthy young male presents with an asymptomatic palpable mass in the lower right abdominal quadrant. A computed tomography shows a 10 × 7 sq cm pear-shaped mass, and pathological examination revealed DTF. A watchful waiting approach was initiated, as the patient was asymptomatic and surgery would imply a significant amount of intestinal resection. After a follow-up of 2 years, the tumor has regressed spontaneously and the patient is still without symptoms. DTF is a difficult to treat condition where individualized management is appropriate. An asymptomatic patient could be treated with a watchful waiting approach, even with intra-abdominal location. Thereby sparing unnecessary morbidity as the tumor can be stable for many years or even regress spontaneously.