Acral dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans with metastases.

Abstract

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is an uncommon cutaneous tumor that occurs rarely on the extremities. This tumor has a particular propensity for local recurrence following seemingly adequate excision. Metastases are rare, and usually follow repeated local recurrences. On rare occasions, fibrosarcomatous change may arise in a DFSP, and appears to affect adversely the prognosis. The adequacy of the initial resection is the most important prognostic factor; however, suggested margins vary between 1.5 and 5 cm. The ideal margin of resection on the foot is unknown. We report a patient with recurrent, acral DFSP with fibrosarcomatous change and pulmonary parenchymal metastases in a 48-year-old black male.