Diseases

dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Overview

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare type of skin cancer. It starts in connective tissue cells in the middle layer of the skin (dermis). Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans might look like a pimple or feel like a rough patch of skin at first.

Symptoms

  • might look like a pimple or feel like a rough patch of skin at first
  • as it grows, lumps of tissue (protuberans) may form near the surface of the skin
  • this skin cancer often forms on the arms, legs and trunk

Causes

  • dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is associated with a rearrangement (translocation) of genetic material between chromosome 17 and chromosome 22.

Risk factors

  • radiation therapy.
  • surgical incisions.
  • tattoos

Diagnosis

  • physical exam.
  • biopsy

Medicines used

Frequently asked questions

What is dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans?

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare type of skin cancer. It starts in connective tissue cells in the middle layer of the skin (dermis). Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans might look like a pimple or feel like a rough patch of skin at first.

What are the symptoms of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans?

might look like a pimple or feel like a rough patch of skin at first, as it grows, lumps of tissue (protuberans) may form near the surface of the skin, this skin cancer often forms on the arms, legs and trunk

What causes dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans?

dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is associated with a rearrangement (translocation) of genetic material between chromosome 17 and chromosome 22.

Which medicines are used for dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans?

imatinib

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