Dermatomyofibroma pathology

Introduction

Dermatomyofibroma was first described as a plaque-like dermal fibromatosis. It is a rare but distinct benign dermal proliferation of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts in the dermis.

Histology of dermatomyofibroma

Sections show a subtle, ill-defined, plaque-like dermal proliferation (figure 1). The cells are uniform, slender, spindle-shaped and bland. The cells contain evenly distributed chromatin or vesicular with small nucleoli and indentations is in keeping with a myofibroblastic line of differentiation. Characteristically, the cells are arranged parallel to the epidermis (figures 2, 3).

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Special studies for dermatomyofibroma

Immunohistochemically, neoplastic cells may express some actin and CD34 positivity. Elastic fibres are increased which can be demonstrated with elastic stains.

Differential diagnosis of dermatomyofibroma pathology

Immunohistochemical studies may be used to exclude other spindle cell lesions. The lack of expression of S-100 excludes neurofibroma and desmoplastic spindle cell naevus. Lack of epithelial membrane antigen expression excludes perineurioma.