Atypical lipomatous tumour of the oesophagus

Abstract

Atypical lipomatous tumours (ALT) of the oesophagus are rare malignant tumours that are found most commonly in the cervical oesophagus. They are commonly misdiagnosed as giant fibrovascular polyps of the oesophagus (GFP). The differentiation between these clinical entities is important as ALTs are malignant tumours with the potential for local recurrence and metastases. We present a case of an ALT which was misdiagnosed as a GFP. The correct diagnosis was made on histological examination of the resected specimen, and confirmed by immunohistochemistry. The tumour cells extended to involve the resection margins, highlighting the need to consider this diagnosis when dealing with all oesophageal polyps, and ensure complete resection of these tumours.