Subcutaneous Myoepithelioma in the Extremity: A Potential Pitfall in the Differential Diagnosis of Subcutaneous Tumors

Medicina (Kaunas). 2023 Mar 28;59(4):667. doi: 10.3390/medicina59040667.

Abstract

We present a rare case of myoepithelioma in the subcutaneous layer of the shoulder with ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). US showed a lobulated hyperechoic mass, leading to an impression of lipoma. MRI showed the mass with low signal intensity on T1-weighted images (T1WI), high signal intensity on fat-suppressed T2-weighted images (T2WI), intermediate signal intensity on T2WI, and intense enhancement with adjacent fascial thickening. Imaging findings of soft tissue myoepithelioma have not been established. We report its US and MRI features mimicking features from a lipomatous tumor to infiltrative malignancy. Although soft tissue myoepithelioma has nonspecific image findings to confirm its diagnosis, some findings may help to make the differential diagnosis. Preoperative pathologic confirmation is recommended in a soft tissue neoplasm.

Keywords: magnetic resonance image; myoepithelioma; shoulder; soft tissue tumor; subcutaneous; ultrasonography.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Myoepithelioma* / diagnostic imaging
  • Myoepithelioma* / pathology
  • Upper Extremity

Grants and funding

This research received no external funding.