Are you looking for treatment options for dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans in Philadelphia? This rare type of cancer can start on the upper layers of the skin and invade deeper tissues if left untreated. Dr. Clifford Perlis offers comprehensive treatment and management for DFSP in the Greater Philadelphia area.

What is Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans?

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is an uncommon type of skin cancer that rarely spreads to other parts of the body, but frequently recurs following excision. Without early treatment, the cancer can invade deep into fat, muscle and even bone. The cancer tends to form on the trunk (chest, back, abdomen, shoulders, buttocks) and arms or legs. The lesion will enlarge and may begin to itch or become tender. The bumps range in color from a reddish brown to a violet color. While it is not known what causes DFSP, it has been noted that DFSP can sometimes begin on skin that has been previously injured, such as from a burn or prior surgery. Surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment for DFSP; it may be performed with a wide local excision, Mohs surgery, or a modified “slow Mohs” procedure. In addition, doctors may recommend treatment with radiation or imatinib mesylate (Gleevec).

Am I a Good Candidate for Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans Treatment?

People of all ages can get DFSP, with most being diagnosed between the ages of 20-50 years old. One of the first signs of DFSP tends to be a small bump on the skin that resembles a deep-seated pimple or rough patch on skin, which has no pain or tenderness. If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of DFSP, then you may be a good candidate for dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans treatment.

Your Consultation

Only a trained dermatologist like Dr. Perlis will be able to diagnose if you have this type of skin cancer. Your consultation will involve a physical examination of your target area. A biopsy is required to confirm the diagnosis of a DFSP. A small sample of your tumor will be taken and examined under the microscope. Dr. Perlis will then look for cancer cells in the sample to determine with certainty if you have dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans. Once this condition has been confirmed, additional tests will be performed to determine the right treatment plan for you.

Treatment Options

Surgical excision is the mainstay of treatment for DFSP; it may be performed with a wide local excision, Mohs surgery, or a modified “slow Mohs” procedure. In addition, doctors may recommend treatment with radiation or imatinib mesylate (Gleevec).

Recovery

The recovery and long-term prognosis for patients diagnosed with dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is excellent, with a high survival percentage and low recurrence rates. Life-long follow-ups may be necessary to monitor your health and ensure that there has been no recurrence or metastasis.

Schedule Your Consultation

Consult Dr. Perlis to learn more about dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans in Philadelphia. If you notice an aberrant lesion and are worried that it might be DFSP, contact us today to set up your consultation at Keystone Dermatology Partners.

I like my visit very much

He is very good in explaining all my issues. I like my visit very much. Staffs are so nice n helpful. Deepali Biswal