[Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: surgical treatment using the Tübingen technique (31 cases)].

BACKGROUND: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is a rare cutaneous sarcoma that progresses slowly. Although it exhibits pronounced local aggressiveness, it rarely metastasises. The condition is difficult to treat on account of asymmetric and unpredictable growth as well as the frequency of relapse. Treatment is primarily surgical. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We report 31 cases of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans operated at the Dermatology Clinic of Novara between 1997 and 2004 using the Tubingen technique. An immunohistochimical study was performed and screening was carried out for possible extension of the neoplasm into muscle. RESULTS: Muscular involvement was seen in 4 cases. No relapses were seen over a median survival period of 3 years and no patients were lost to follow-up. DISCUSSION: The Mohs technique is the surgical method of reference and allows tumour eradication with sparing of healthy tissue. The Tubingen method constitutes an alternative approach requiring fewer histological sections. The results obtained in our series were good and no relapses were seen over a median survival period of 3 years.