Subscapular elastofibrolipoma treated with marginal resection: two case reports

Abstract

Background: Elastofibroma dorsi is a rare benign tumor of soft tissue, typically under the lower angle of the scapula. Its specific location and distinctive clinical symptoms can provide enough information for diagnosis. Nevertheless, pathological confirmation by biopsy may be needed to rule out other malignancies.

Case presentation: Here, we present two cases of 63-year-old and 49-year-old female Asian patients who came to us with the chief complaint of pain and bulging in their shoulders. Both patients had rubbery and mobile masses. Also, shoulder movements were not restricted in the examination; however, the patients expressed pain during movements. Computed tomography scans were compatible with the diagnosis of elastofibroma dorsi. Surgical excision was performed for both cases owing to the symptomatic nature of the masses, and histopathological findings confirmed the diagnosis.

Conclusion: Elastofibroma dorsi is a benign pseudotumor presenting with an uncomfortable feeling in the shoulder with movement in older females. In typical symptom-free cases of elastofibroma dorsi, observation is sufficient, while in symptomatic patients or if there is suspicion of malignancy, complete resection with marginal resection is the treatment of choice.

Keywords: Elastofibrolipoma; Elastofibroma dorsi; Fibrolipoma; Neoplasm; Scapula.

Fig. 1

Computed tomography of a case with elastofibrolipoma (yellow indicator)

Fig. 2

Pathological section of the mass excised from the chest wall of a 63-year-old male, in favor of elastofibroma

Fig. 3

Computed tomography of a case with unilateral fibrolipoma (yellow indicator)

Fig. 4

Pathological section of the mass excised from the chest wall of a 49-year-old female, in favor of elastofibroma