NODULAR FASCIITIS

Nodular fasciitis is a benign proliferation of fibroblasts and myofibr oblasts in the subcutaneous tissues. The lesions are generally small a nd solitary, arising commonly in the upper extremities of adults and i n the head and neck region of infants and children. A history of traum a may precede these reactive lesions, but their cause is unknown. The rapid growth, abundant cellularity, and mitotic activity frequently ca use these lesions to be misdiagnosed as sarcomas. Local excision is th e treatment of choice for these generally nonrecurring lesions. A case report, differential diagnosis, and review of the literature are pres ented. Physicians need to be aware of this clinical entity and to work closely with pathology consultants in confirming this difficult diagn osis.