Elastofibroma dorsi: diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm.

BACKGROUND

Elastofibroma typically occurs in the subscapular region of elderly individuals and has a high incidence in Kyushu and the surrounding islands in southern Japan. The treatment of this lesion is somewhat controversial.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eleven patients with a diagnosis of elastofibroma dorsi were identified from the unit's database. The clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment options were evaluated.

RESULTS

There were 6 men and 5 women, with a mean age of 66.7 years (range, 49-82 years). Bilateral lesions were found in 2 patients. The mean lesion size was 6.6 cm in greatest dimension (range, 5-9 cm). The mean follow-up of both surgically and conservatively managed patients was 16.4 months (range, 2-69 months). All were diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging, and early in the series, 1 also underwent an open biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Five patients underwent marginal excision of the lesion. No recurrence was observed at last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Magnetic resonance imaging can be used as a first-line investigation of the lesion, and biopsy is not necessary in most cases. We suggest that a conservative "wait-and-watch" attitude is reasonable and may be considered even when patients are symptomatic.