Desmoplastic fibroma of the distal radius: an interesting case and a review of the literature and therapeutic implications

Abstract

Desmoplastic fibromas are rare, benign, locally aggressive bone tumors, which arise primarily in patients younger than 30 years old. Historically, even with greater functional loss, en bloc or wide resection of the tumors to prevent local recurrence has been the method of choice in treatment. This article discusses the presentation of a 10-year-old male who presented with a mass in the distal forearm, after reporting difficulty in pronation and supination. The patient was ultimately treated with wide resection and allo-arthrodesis with allograft. Post-operatively, the patient has exhibited excellent recovery, including normal range of motion at the shoulder and elbow, and ability to perform all activities of daily livings despite reduced grip strength compared with the contralateral side.