Israel is known for its advanced medical services. The Ichilov Clinic provides high-quality and progressive treatment for dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) in Israel. This leading medical institution is equipped with modern diagnostic equipment for accurate diagnosis and staging of DFSP. The medical center employs multidisciplinary teams of specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, pathologists, and radiation therapists, who collaboratively develop an individualized treatment plan for each patient.
Surgeons at Ichilov have extensive experience. They use advanced methods for removing DFSP that minimize the risks of complications and recurrences, such as Mohs micrographic surgery. The clinic has the most modern linear accelerators and technological equipment that enhance the quality of radiation therapy while minimizing harm to healthy tissues. Ichilov regularly participates in clinical trials and provides access to the latest developments in DFSP therapy.
Patients receive comprehensive support, including psychological, rehabilitation, and social assistance necessary for improving well-being and facilitating faster recovery.
About the Disease
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare and relatively slow-growing type of soft tissue sarcoma that originates in the deep layers of the skin. It is dangerous due to its tendency for local recurrence after removal but rarely metastasizes to other parts of the body.
The causes of DFSP are not fully understood. Researchers identify several factors that may potentially influence the development of this condition:
- genetic mutations. DFSP is associated with a unique chromosomal translocation between chromosomes 17 and 22, leading to the formation of a fusion gene;
- skin injuries;
- exposure to ionizing radiation.
Symptoms of DFSP can be nonspecific and in the early stages resemble benign skin lesions. The most common and characteristic signs include: a soft nodular lump on the skin; changes in color, size, and consistency of the lesion. Tumours are most often found on the trunk, limbs, head, and neck.
Treatment Methods for the Disease
Treatment of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) requires an individualized approach. Typically, therapy begins with surgical intervention, which is considered the most effective means of combating the tumour. Depending on the stage, size, and location of the tumour, other methods and their combinations may be applied.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
The gold standard for DFSP treatment is Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS). MMS allows surgeons to remove the tumour layer by layer, immediately checking each for the presence of cancer cells. This ensures that the tumour is completely removed while minimally affecting healthy tissues. The high precision of this method provides a low likelihood of recurrence, preserving function and appearance of the affected area.
Wide Surgical Excision
When Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is not possible or feasible, complete surgical excision is performed. This traditional surgical intervention involves removing the tumour with a small margin of healthy tissue around its visible borders (2–4 cm).
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is typically used as an adjunct treatment after surgery, especially if there is a high risk of recurrence or if the removal was incomplete. Radiation therapy may also be prescribed in cases of inoperable tumours. Radiation destroys remaining cancer cells and reduces the likelihood of disease recurrence.
Ichilov uses the latest models of linear accelerators, particularly the TrueBeam and Lunac machines. These innovative devices provide maximum targeting accuracy and dynamic beam shaping, reduced radiation exposure time, the use of the highest possible doses over fewer sessions, and reduced side effects.
Targeted Therapy
Some cases of DFSP are characterized by the presence of genetic mutations that can be specifically targeted with targeted therapy. For example, the drug imatinib (Glivec), a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, shows sustained high efficacy in patients with PDGFRA mutations.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is rarely used in the treatment of DFSP, as the tumour usually does not respond to conventional chemotherapy drugs. However, in certain cases, especially with metastatic or recurrent disease, doctors may apply chemotherapy, typically in combination with other treatment methods such as surgical intervention or radiation therapy.
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
Diagnostic Methods for the Disease
Diagnosis of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) requires a thorough approach, including clinical evaluation, laboratory studies, and instrumental imaging methods. Typically, diagnostic procedures and clarification of the diagnosis take no more than 3 working days.
First Day
The doctor takes a medical history, conducts a thorough skin examination to assess the size, shape, color, and consistency of the suspicious nodule or spot, and checks the condition of the lymph nodes.
Second Day
The patient undergoes a comprehensive set of laboratory and instrumental studies to identify the skin disease.
- Dermatoscopy.
- Biopsy and histopathological examination of the tissue sample.
- Immunohistochemical tests. Additional immunohistochemical markers may be used to clarify the diagnosis, helping to distinguish DFSP from melanoma and other sarcomas.
- Molecular genetic testing. Conducted in cases where the diagnosis remains uncertain, to detect characteristic chromosomal translocations associated with DFSP.
- Instrumental imaging methods. Although DFSP rarely metastasizes, imaging techniques such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or ultrasound may be used to assess the depth and extent of the lesion. These methods may also be required for surgical planning.
Third Day
A team of specialists conducts a thorough and comprehensive analysis of the diagnostic results, clarifies the prognosis, and develops the optimal treatment plan for DFSP for the specific patient.
- Biopsy
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Ultrasound
How Much Does Treatment Cost
The cost of treatment is calculated individually and depends on the complexity of the specific case. The price is influenced by the stage of the disease and the overall condition of the patient, the number and complexity of diagnostic studies, and the need for specialized consultations.
Contact a professional medical coordinator to find out the cost of the treatment program at the Ichilov Clinic, view reviews from other patients, and learn about the conditions of stay. You can choose any convenient way to contact us – call by phone, write in the online chat, or fill out a special feedback form on the website.
Advantages of Treating Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans in Israel
- Advanced diagnostics and multidisciplinary approach
- Innovative surgical techniques
- Advanced radiation therapy methods
- Access to the latest drugs and targeted therapy
- High-quality care and language support
Modern methods allow for the removal of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans with minimal risks of recurrence. You can schedule a video consultation with a leading DFSP specialist via Zoom or Skype and receive expert advice on treatment options applicable to your specific case.