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An Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor is a rare tumor composed of inflammatory cells and myofibroblast cells (a type of connective tissue cell). While these tumors are usually benign, they can sometimes behave aggressively or be locally invasive.
read more about inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor ...The tumor typically forms in the lungs, abdomen, or pelvis, but it can occur anywhere in the body's soft tissue. Its composition is unique, consisting of a mix of inflammatory cells and myofibroblast cells (a type of connective tissue cell that causes scarring), often making it look like a malignant tumor on initial imaging. The tumor is generally slow-growing and can be difficult to diagnose because its appearance mimics several other types of masses. The cellular blend of inflammation and structural cells is the hallmark that defines this specific pathology.
Symptoms depend entirely on the location of the mass. A tumor in the lung may cause a persistent cough or shortness of breath. If the tumor is in the abdomen, it may cause localized pain, vomiting, or a noticeable palpable lump. Systemic symptoms often reflect the inflammatory nature of the mass. These can include unexplained fever, fatigue, and weight loss, signaling a chronic immune response within the body.
Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumors can severely impact eye health by occurring in the orbit (the eye socket). An orbital tumor can cause pain, swelling of the eyelids, and rapid proptosis (bulging of the eye). If the mass presses on the optic nerve, it can cause severe vision loss.
Diagnosis relies on imaging tests (Computed Tomography or Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to locate the mass. A biopsy is necessary to confirm the unique mix of inflammatory cells and myofibroblast cells and to rule out malignancy.
The necessary treatment is often surgical removal of the tumor. For tumors that are difficult to remove completely, treatment may involve corticosteroids or chemotherapy to shrink the mass and prevent recurrence.
The tumor is not cancerous, but it is often classified as of intermediate biological potential because it can recur locally.
No, these tumors can form in many different organs, including the lungs, soft tissue, and orbit.
Yes, systemic symptoms like fever and fatigue are often associated with the body's inflammatory reaction.
If you notice a sudden bulging of the eye (Proptosis) or limited eye movement, see a doctor. IMTs can occur in the orbit and mimic a malignant cancer. Treatment often involves surgical excision followed by medical management with NSAIDs or targeted therapy.
NORD. Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor (rarediseases.org). 2024.
AAO. Orbital Tumors (aao.org). 2024.
Mayo Clinic. Soft Tissue Tumors (mayoclinic.org). 2024.
StatPearls. Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). 2024.