Solitary fibrous tumor of bone developing lung metastases on long-term follow-up

Skeletal Radiol. 2020 Nov;49(11):1865-1871. doi: 10.1007/s00256-020-03493-x. Epub 2020 Jun 9.

Abstract

Solitary fibrous tumors are rare mesenchymal neoplasms of fibroblastic or myofibroblastic origin. Primary solitary fibrous tumors arising in bone are extremely rare and rarely metastasize. We present a case of solitary fibrous tumor where the diagnosis was delayed due to a failure to recognize the subtle, lytic lesion underlying a fracture of the left humerus. The patient underwent proximal humeral replacement and was followed closely with imaging of humerus and chest. A small lung metastasis was found on CT scan 38 months later and was resected. Two additional small metastases were found and resected 62 months after initial tumor resection. The purpose of this case report is both to highlight the radiologic challenges which can lead to overlooking a lytic lesion underlying a fracture and to show the importance of long-term follow-up in patients with solitary fibrous tumor.

Keywords: Pathologic fracture; Solitary fibrous tumor.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bone Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Solitary Fibrous Tumors* / diagnostic imaging
  • Solitary Fibrous Tumors* / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed