Dermato-fibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare, slow-growing, form of a type of cancer called soft tissue sarcoma. Soft tissue sarcomas develop from the supporting tissues of the body such as fat, muscle, blood vessels or any other tissue that surround, support or protect the body's organs.

DFSP is a tumour of fibrous tissue found within the skin (dermato) and causes a swelling or lump (protuberans).

DFSPs are slow-growing tumours that are often present for some years, causing no symptoms, before being noticed either because of a swelling or due to discomfort. They are more commonly seen on the trunk (chest, abdomen and back) than elsewhere. They are commoner in men and usually appear in early to mid-adult life.

Although they are a form of cancer DFSPs rarely spread to other parts of the body although they can recur locally following incomplete surgical removal. Surgery is usually the mainstay of treatment. A margin of surrounding normal tissue will be taken away along with the tumour to minimise the risk of any local recurrence. Radiotherapy is sometimes given after surgery as an additional precaution although, due to the rarity of the condition, it is not known if this kind of treatment will be beneficial in every situation. Chemotherapy is rarely used.

Because this is such a rare condition it is important to make sure that your husband sees a specialist in the treatment of soft tissue sarcomas.