Solitary mesenteric fibromatosis in a male patient: clinical case report

Abstract

Mesenteric fibromatosis is a rare tumor that grows slowly and asymptomatically and is more frequent among men. The risk factors described in the literature may not be present in all cases. The clinical presentation is variable and depends on the localization of the tumor and the involvement of surrounding structures. Imaging studies such as abdominal computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are the preferred methods for the diagnosis of this tumor. However, a definitive diagnosis is made based on histopathology and immunohistochemistry results. Surgical resection remains the preferred option for the treatment of mesenteric fibromatosis. This report presents a clinical case of mesenteric fibromatosis in a male patient who presented with partial abdominal obstruction and the absence of risk factors for mesenteric fibromatosis.

Keywords: abdominal mass; desmoid tumor; immunohistochemistry; intestinal fibromatosis; laparotomy.

Figure 1

Abdominal computed tomography showing an intra-abdominal mass measuring 70 mm in diameter and compressing the small intestine.

Figure 2

(A) Retroperitoneal mass invading the right colon, terminal ileum and part of the transverse colon. (B) Resected tumor sample for histopathology.

Figure 3

Microscopy: fusiform cell proliferation with positive β-catenin immunoreactivity.