Diagnostic challenge of aneurysmal dermatofibroma mimicking cutaneous metastasis in a patient with lung cancer: A case report

Choi,Jong Yun; Park,Heeyang; Choi,Jangyoun

doi:10.3892/etm.2025.13014

January-2026 Volume 31 Issue 1

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January-2026 Volume 31 Issue 1

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Case Report Open Access

Diagnostic challenge of aneurysmal dermatofibroma mimicking cutaneous metastasis in a patient with lung cancer: A case report

Authors:
- Jong Yun Choi
- Heeyang Park
- Jangyoun Choi
View Affiliations / Copyright

Affiliations: Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul 06591, Korea

Copyright: © Choi et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of Creative Commons Attribution License.
Article Number: 19
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Published online on: November 10, 2025

https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2025.13014
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Abstract

While cutaneous metastasis from lung cancer is rare, its recognition is critical. Benign mimics like aneurysmal dermatofibroma (ADF) complicate diagnosis, particularly in patients with known malignancy. A 71‑year‑old man with non‑small cell lung cancer presented with a chest wall nodule. Positron emission tomography‑CT revealed hypermetabolic activity (maximum standardized uptake volume, 6.9), prompting excision. Histopathology showed spindle‑like cells in storiform patterns, blood‑filled spaces and CD34/human herpesvirus‑8 negativity. Ki‑67 (5%) confirmed ADF. This case illustrates the diagnostic challenge of distinguishing ADF from cutaneous metastasis in patients with known malignancy. Improper workup through imaging or clinical impression without pathologic confirmation may lead to unsuitable treatment. Histologic confirmation with immunohistochemical assessment is essential for accurate diagnosis. ADF as a potential mimic of metastatic disease is necessary to prevent upstaging. Histopathological confirmation should always be considered for ambiguous cutaneous lesions.

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Journals

International Journal of Molecular Medicine

International Journal of Oncology

Molecular Medicine Reports

Oncology Reports

Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine

Oncology Letters

Biomedical Reports

Molecular and Clinical Oncology

World Academy of Sciences Journal

International Journal of Functional Nutrition

International Journal of Epigenetics

Medicine International

Diagnostic challenge of aneurysmal dermatofibroma mimicking cutaneous metastasis in a patient with lung cancer: A case report

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