DERMATOFIBROSARCOMA PROTUBERAN (DFSP)

TYPES

Pathologists (doctors who study tissues and bodies) use a microscope to examine cells to identify the kind of DFSP. Types of DFSP include:

• Fibrosarcomatous dermatofibrosarcoma protuberan (DFSP-FS)
• Bednar tumors (pigmented DFSP)
• Myxoid DFSPs
• Giant cell fibroblastoma

SYMPTOMS

Early Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberan (DFSP) signs, such as tumors growing in numerous body regions, are often overlooked. These tumors may show as tiny, painless bruises or birthmarks in newborns and toddlers. As the condition progresses, the tumor pushes into the epidermis, producing hard lumps on the skin, known as protuberan. As the cancer progresses, these symptoms become more evident.

The nodules may be:

• Attached firmly to your skin
• Rubbery or hard
• Simple to break open or bleed
• Reddish-brown to violet, red, or blue
• Growing and stretching skin
• Tender

DIAGNOSIS

Medical experts specializing in skin cancer and skin illnesses, dermatologists can only diagnose Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberan (DFSP). Your physician will conduct a skin biopsy to eliminate any or all of the growth. Pathologists use a microscope to inspect the tissue for cancer cells.

If a skin biopsy reveals that you have DFSP, an MRI may be ordered to establish the extent and size of the tumor.

TREATMENT

Surgical removal is the preferred therapy for Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberan (DFSP). Dermatologists perform Mohs surgery to eliminate DFSP tumors. During the procedure, your healthcare provider will:

• Surgically excised the malignant tumor, along with a tiny quantity of surrounding healthy tissue (known as the margin)
• Examines the tissue boundaries (margin) for cancer cells using a microscope
• Eliminates more tissue at the site of the tumor if cancer cells are discovered in the margins of the tumor
• Stops eliminating tissue when there are no more cancer cells in the margin
• Conducts reconstructive surgery

Nonsurgical DFSP Treatments such as imatinib are also available in treating large tumors.