Elastofibroma Dorsi Detected Incidentally on Chest Computed Tomography: The Prevalence and Reporting Rate in Radiology Reports.

Background Elastofibroma dorsi (ED) is an uncommon benign connective-tissue tumor, usually seen in the subscapular region of women after the fifth decade. The study aimed to determine the prevalence, radiological characteristics, and the rates of mention in the initial radiology reports of ED incidentally detected by chest computed tomography (CT) imaging in a large population.  Methodology This study was conducted at Hitit University, Erol Olçok Training and Research Hospital Radiology Department in Çorum, Turkey. A total of 3,299 patients (1,554 females, 1,745 males) who underwent non-contrast chest CT for various reasons were included in this retrospective study. The presence, side, thickness, and density of ED were investigated in these patients. Differences in gender and laterality were assessed statistically. It was also reviewed whether it was stated in the initial radiology report or not. Results ED was detected in 79 (2.4%) of 3,299 patients, in 60 (75.9%) females and 19 (24.1%) males with a median age of 57.5 years (range, 18-99 years). The risk of ED presence was determined to be 3.65-fold in females than in males. In the cases determined with ED, the median age was 75 years (range, 53-96 years), and ED was not determined in any patient aged <50 years. A statistically significant correlation was determined between age and the presence of ED (p < 0.001). No statistically significant correlation was found between age and ED thickness or density (p = 0.602, p = 0.233, respectively). It was noted that none of the patients were diagnosed in the first radiological report. Conclusions ED can be easily overlooked on cross-sectional examinations because of the similar appearance and density to adjacent structures. Knowledge of the characteristic radiological features of these lesions and increased awareness of radiologists will make early diagnosis possible in asymptomatic cases.

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Copyright © 2023, Yanarateş et al.

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The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.