A rare low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma in lower jaw with the resemblance to benign lesions

Abstract

Background Low-grade myofibroblastic sarcoma (LGMS) is a rare solid infiltrative soft tissue tumor with a predilection for the head and neck region. Case presentation We report the diagnostic steps of a fast-growing lesion of the lower left jaw in a 45-year-old otherwise healthy woman. A first biopsy and subsequent histopathological examination showed potential differentials of a benign myofibroma, benign nodular fasciitis or an LGMS. This diagnostic overlap was a challenge for the decision of the further treatment approach. The treatment consisted of a segmental en bloc resection of the mandible including the second premolar, first and second molar. Histopathological examination of the resected tumor confirmed an LGMS. Conclusion The histopathologic resemblance of LGMS to a range of benign and reactive tumors may lead to misdiagnosis and mistreatment. The rarity of LGMS explains the lack of established treatment protocols. This case shows the importance of adequate clinical decisions, expertise in the histopathology of rare tumors and interdisciplinary exchange to achieve state-of-the-art patient management.

Low-grade malignant myofibroblastic sarcoma of the larynx: a case report

“…The basis of a diagnosis of LGMS is described in the World Health Organization pathological classification of bone and soft tissue tumors, as follows. 13 (1) The tumor shows a propulsive growth pattern, and there is infiltration of tumor cells into the submucosa and muscle tissue, causing striations. (2) The tumor tissue principally comprises spindle-or star-shaped cells, and the number of such cells varies across the tumor.…”

Indolent growth of low‑grade myofibroblastic sarcoma of the knee with the resemblance of a benign lesion: A case report

“…Currently, to the best of our knowledge, there is no literature reporting knee LGMS. Due to its painless nature, LGMS is frequently overlooked in clinical practice and misdiagnosed as a benign lesion or other diseases with similar symptoms or imaging findings (3). The actual incidence of LGMS may be under-reported due to unclear diagnostic criteria and a high potential for misdiagnosis.…”