Desmoid Tumors: Characteristics and Diagnosis Challenges

This is a video synopsis/summary of a Peer Exchange involving Ryan Haumschild, PharmD, MS, MBA; Tony Phillip, MD; Mrinal Gounder, MD; Ravin Ratan, MD, MEd; and Derek van Amerongen, MD, MS.

Desmoid tumors are nonmetastatic but locally invasive tumors that can occur anywhere in the body. They present heterogeneously with a wide range of symptoms or sometimes no symptoms at all. Patients may experience delayed diagnosis due to desmoid tumors’ variable presentations and physicians’ lack of familiarity. Most cases are sporadic rather than associated with a genetic syndrome. Early, accurate diagnosis is crucial to avoid exposing patients to unnecessary, potentially harmful treatments. Educating surgical and medical oncologists to maintain desmoid tumors as the differential diagnosis is important to ensure appropriate multidisciplinary management. Even experienced pathologists may misdiagnose desmoid tumors. Surgeons unfamiliar with desmoid tumors may pursue positive margins aggressively, increasing morbidity. A collaborative, nuanced approach across specialties is needed for optimal desmoid tumor care.

Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by AJMC^® editorial staff.