Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor

Last revised by Mohammadtaghi Niknejad on 11 Jan 2024

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMT), also known as plasma cell granulomas, are rare neoplasms that have a diverse spectrum of biological behavior. 

These tumors were previously referred to as inflammatory pseudotumors.  

They can occur at any age and there is currently no recognized gender predilection.

Composed of spindle cells (key feature) with a variable infiltrate of inflammatory cells and fibrous tissue. They can occur at numerous sites:

  • more common 3

    • lung

    • head and neck

    • mesentery

    • gastrointestinal tract

    • retroperitoneum

    • musculoskeletal system

  • less common 

    • liver 8 

    • spleen 10

    • urogenital tract 6 

Radiological features of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors suggest malignant neoplasms, whereas they are not and these lesions are underdiagnosed entities 11.

Imaging characteristics depend on the organ of involvement:

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