Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Desmoid tumor diagnostic study of choice
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Definitive diagnosis of a desmoid tumor can only be established by histological examination of a biopsy specimen. Electron microscopy can be done which shows spindle cells of desmoids appearing as myofibroblasts.
Diagnostic study of choice
Diagnostic study of choice
- Biopsy is the most important and conclusive diagnostic procedure for desmoid tumor
- After biopsy, definitive diagnosis must be established on histopathologic analysis
- Electron microscopy is performed to obtain further clarity and confirmation for the diagnosis
- Spindle cells of desmoid tumors appear to be myofibroblasts on electron microscopy which represents an abnormal proliferation of myofibroblasts, which normally disappear gradually during the later stages of wound healing
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Sara Mohsin, M.D.[2]