Fibromatosis is a condition where fibrous overgrowths of dermal and subcutaneousconnective tissuedeveloptumours called fibromas. These fibromas are usually benign (non-cancerous).
What is the classification of fibromatosis?
There appear to be many different ways to classify fibromatosis. One classification system used is based on age (i.e.: juvenile vs adult fibromatoses) and localisation (ie, superficial vs deep fibromatoses).
The following table lists the distinguishing features between superficial and deep fibromatoses.
Superficial fibromatoses
Deep fibromatoses
Slow growing tumour
Small size
Arise from fascia or aponeurosis
Less aggressive
Rapidly growing pseudotumour
Usually, they reach a large size
Often involve deeper structures (muscles of the trunk and extremities)
Whilst most fibromatoses are benign tumours and do not metastasise (spread to other parts of the body), the desmoid tumours although they do not metastasise like malignant cancers can be locally aggressive. They can grow quickly into large tumours that can obstruct vital structures such as major blood vessels, nerves and organs.
Infantile digital fibroma
Knuckle pads
Dermatofibroma
Fibrous papule
Periungual fibroma
What causes fibromatosis?
The cause of fibromatosis remains unclear. In some types of fibromatosis such as desmoid tumours, it is thought that the condition may be related to trauma, hormonal factors, or have a genetic association. Superficial fibromatoses such as palmar, plantar and penile fibromatosis have sometimes been linked to certain diseases such as diabetes, liver disease and hypertension.
What is the treatment for fibromatosis?
Management of fibromatosis depends on individual disease. For further information on the different types of fibromatoses select from the list below.
