2002 OITE Question 7

Question

What is the typical location for elastofibroma dorsi?

1- Between the subscapularis and scapula

2- Paraspinal musculature of the spine

3- Anterior chest wall beneath the pectoralis major

4- Posterior chest wall under the scapula

5- Within the latissimus dorsi

Figures

Answer (click for answer)

Correct Answer: 4- Posterior chest wall beneath the scapula


This is one of those OITE questions that searches for obscurity and then provides a reference that casually mentions the answer. The given reference is about a case report of a 69-year-old woman who developed an elastofibroma dorsi. Apparently there has been some debate in the past over whether this is a neoplastic process or a reactive process. These authors argue for the latter stating that this woman’s elastofibroma developed secondary to degenerative osteoarthritis in her ipsilateral glenohumeral joint. This was the main point of the report. However, as part of their discussion the authors happen to mention that "Elastofibroma is a peculiar condition, usually occurring between the rib cage and the tip of the scapula in elderly patients."

Reference: Cin Orthop 2001;387:127-131.