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

• Infiltrative Fasciitis
• Pseudosarcomatous Fasciitis
• Subcutaneous Pseudosarcomatous Fibromatosis

What is Nodular Fasciitis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Nodular Fasciitis is a benign, rapidly-growing mass that frequently affects the upper extremities (arm, forearm, and hand)
• This benign tumor reduces in size, after a certain time period of rapid growth (usually by 6 weeks), during which time it can cause (severe) anxiety to both the affected individual and to the healthcare provider. A biopsy of the tissue mass can ensure a definitive diagnosis
• A complete surgical removal of Nodular Fasciitis results in a cure and is the treatment of choice; though, recurrence of the tumor has been observed in some rare cases
• Nevertheless,, the prognosis of the condition is excellent on suitable surgical treatment

Who gets Nodular Fasciitis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Nodular Fasciitis may occur in individuals of all races, ethnic groups, and gender
• It commonly affects individuals between the age ranges of 10-40 years

What are the Risk Factors for Nodular Fasciitis? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors of Nodular Fasciitis are unknown.

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 Nodular Fasciitis? (Etiology)

• Nodular Fasciitis is a benign tumor. It was considered to be a reactive (inflammatory) process. However, some researchers believe that the tumor may actually be a neoplastic (excessive growth of local tissue) process
• The tumor rapidly grows over 3-6 weeks, after which it shrinks in size by itself, over a period of time
• Since, the tumor occurs as a rapidly-proliferating mass, it can be extremely worrisome and mistaken for a malignant growth such as a sarcoma

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Nodular Fasciitis?

The signs and symptoms of Nodular Fasciitis include:

• Pain in the affected region
• Feeling of tenderness
• It occurs in the upper extremities (more common in the forearm) and in the trunk (chest, back), also in the head and neck region. In some cases, the lower extremities may be affected
• The tumor is usually less than 5cm in size, even after a full growth

How is Nodular Fasciitis Diagnosed?

Nodular Fasciitis diagnosis involves:

• Physical examination and evaluation of medical history
• Radiology images of the affected region, such as MRI and CT scans
• A tissue biopsy is critical for a definitive diagnosis - the tumors are often biopsied, due to their rapid growth. The tissue is examined by a pathologist under the microscope, 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 Nodular Fasciitis?

The possible complications from Nodular Fasciitis include:

• Rarely, the tumor can recur following its surgical removal
• The tumor size may affect the quality of one’s life

How is Nodular Fasciitis Treated?

Treatment of Nodular Fasciitis is a complete surgical excision that results in a cure. However, in some cases, recurrences have been observed on surgical removal of the tumor.

How can Nodular Fasciitis be Prevented?

Nodular Fasciitis benign tumor condition may not be preventable, as the risk factors are unknown.

What is the Prognosis of Nodular Fasciitis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Nodular Fasciitis is generally excellent after a surgical removal of the benign mass.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Nodular Fasciitis:

• There are two benign conditions, namely proliferative fasciitis and proliferative myositis, which are similar to Nodular Fasciitis; both these occur in older individuals
• Proliferative fasciitis commonly occurs in the arms, while proliferative myositis occurs on the chest