What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• ED (Elastofibroma Dorsi)
• Elastofibroma Dorsi (ED)

What is Elastofibroma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Elastofibroma is an uncommon benign tumor, of unknown cause that is found in elderly individuals
• The most prominent location of the tumor is in the back, just below the scapula (shoulder blade)
• A biopsy of the soft tissue tumor is necessary for a definitive diagnosis and a surgical removal of the entire tumor is normally curative, with excellent prognosis

Who gets Elastofibroma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Elastofibroma can occur in adults, between the ages of 30-80 years
• Both males and females are affected; though, the tumor is much more common in females, than males
• There is no known ethnic or racial preference

What are the Risk Factors for Elastofibroma? (Predisposing Factors)

Currently, no risk factors are noted for the development of Elastofibroma.

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Elastofibroma? (Etiology)

• The exact cause and mechanism of formation of Elastofibroma, is unknown
• Some researchers believe that this soft tissue tumor occurs, due to a prior trauma or injury

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Elastofibroma?

The signs and symptoms of Elastofibroma include:

• They appear as a painless mass or nodule on the back, generally below the shoulder blade (scapula). Occasionally, they are painful to touch
• An individual may have sensation of mass, upon movement of the scapula. Elastofibroma is often present on both the right and left sides (in the back)
• Other uncommon locations, where this tumor is noted are:
  • Bony projection in the proximal (upper) femur, termed as greater trochanter
  • Chest wall, chest cavity
  • Cornea, eye socket bone
  • Elbow tip (bony projection)
  • Foot
  • Mucus membrane in the mouth
  • Muscle on the shoulder, in the upper arm (called deltoid muscle)
  • Sitz bone (or the sitting bone)
  • Stomach

How is Elastofibroma Diagnosed?

The diagnostic tests vary, based on location of the tumor. A diagnosis of Elastofibroma may involve:

• Physical examination, evaluation of the individual’s medical history
• MRI scan and CT scan of the chest, ultrasound of the mass, to aid in obtaining a clear image of the tumor
• Biopsy of the tumor - the specimen is examined under a microscope by a pathologist, to arrive at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Elastofibroma?

There are no major complications noted with Elastofibroma benign soft tissue tumor.

How is Elastofibroma Treated?

The treatment of Elastofibroma is undertaken as:

• Complete surgical excision of the tumor is curative. Surgical intervention with complete excision, not only results in a complete cure, but also eliminates the chances of tumor recurrence
• Surgery is usually performed, if the tumor mass is large and causing symptoms. However, if the tumor is non-symptomatic, then surgery may not be necessary
• Post-operative care is important: A minimum activity level is to be ensured, until the surgical wound heals
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

How can Elastofibroma be Prevented?

• Current medical research has not established a way of preventing Elastofibroma
• Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with scans and physical examinations are important

What is the Prognosis of Elastofibroma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Elastofibroma is excellent with surgical intervention; on a complete removal of the tumor.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Elastofibroma:

Elastofibroma tumor has very distinctive microscopic features, when examined by a pathologist under a microscope. This helps the pathologist arrive at a definitive diagnosis.