Angiomyofibroblastoma: A diagnostic dilemma

Angiomyofibroblastoma of the Vulva

Angiomyofibroblastoma (AMF) is a rare benign soft-tissue tumor that most frequently affects the lower genital tract of young to middle-aged women. It mainly consists of two components: stromal cells and prominent vasculature. Clinically, it is usually asymptomatic and resembles Bartholin's cyst. Although it is a benign tumor, cases with recurrence and sarcomatous transformation have been reported. Due to the overlapping of histopathological picture, diagnostic perplexity often arises between AMF and aggressive angiomyxoma (AAM). AMF being benign in nature is treated by local excision, whereas AAM is a more infiltrative lesion that has a higher tendency for local recurrence.

Angiomyofibroblastoma of the mediastinum: A case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION

Angiomyofibroblastoma (AMFB) is an extremely rare disease. It commonly occurs in middle-aged females and mainly involves the vulvovaginal region. Pathological examination plays an important role in differentiating from other tumors. But far less published literature focus on the imaging characteristics of AMFB.

CLINICAL FINDINGS/DIAGNOSES

We reported a case of AMFB in a 73-year-old male, involving the mediastinum with computed tomography (CT) imaging and pathologic findings. Preoperative unenhanced CT scan of chest revealed a 6.9 × 7.4 × 9.3 cm mass with equal density, located in the posterior mediastinum. On contrast-enhanced CT images, the tumor presented moderate, heterogeneous enhancement. Due to the unclear interface between the tumor and adjacent tissues, this patient underwent operative partial resection of the tumor. The pathologic diagnosis was AMFB.

CONCLUSIONS

This tumor represents a further example of unusual location different from conventional AMFB. This case adds to the experience with AMFB by summarizing its characteristics, and also reviewing the literature.