What do we know about inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors?-A systematic review

Background: Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) are rare intermediate-grade neoplasms that have a high recurrence rate after excision and exhibit low metastatic potential. These tumors contain proliferating neoplastic, fibroblastic and myofibroblastic cells, and are also characterized by chronic inflammatory infiltration by lymphocytes, plasma cells, eosinophils, and histiocytes. They belong to the group of inflammatory spindle cell lesions. Some reactive lesions, such as inflammatory pseudotumors, may appear to be IMTs, which makes their differential diagnosis extremely difficult. The aim of this article is to compile the recent information on IMTs to aid in their diagnosis and treatment. Methods: We reviewed articles published between 2017 and 2021, which were selected from online medical databases. In addition, some earlier articles and latest scientific monographies were analyzed. Results: The terminology used for inflammatory spindle cell lesions seems to be confusing. The terms inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors and inflammatory pseudotumors are interchangeably used by many scientists. However, a detailed analysis of the development of terminology suggests that the term inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors should be used to refer to a neoplastic lesion. Conclusions: IMTs are rare neoplasms, which have not been investigated in detail due to the difficulty in collecting a large number of cases. Thus, our knowledge about this disease remains unsatisfactory. Recently developed techniques such as next-generation sequencing and computer-aided histopathological diagnosis may be useful in understanding the etiopathology of IMTs, which will help in the selection of the most appropriate therapy for patients.

Automated summary

This article reviews recent information on inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMTs) to assist in their diagnosis and treatment. The terminology for inflammatory spindle cell lesions appears to be confusing, with the terms IMTs and inflammatory pseudotumors used interchangeably. However, a detailed analysis suggests that the term IMTs should be used for neoplastic lesions. IMTs are rare neoplasms that have not been extensively studied, and our knowledge about this disease is still unsatisfactory. Recently developed techniques such as next-generation sequencing and computer-aided histopathological diagnosis may help in understanding the etiopathology of IMTs and selecting appropriate therapy for patients.