The association between Crohn's disease and desmoid tumors: A novel case and review of the literature

We describe a 50 year old male not known to have Crohn's disease and without FAP who presented with multiple desmoids. Investigation of post-operative diarrhea confirmed a diagnosis of Crohn's disease. This is the first report of a male patient, who had never undergone prior abdominal surgery, presenting with Crohn's disease and abdominal desmoid tumors. The reasons why Crohn's disease and desmoids may be associated are explored, focusing particularly on alternations in the fibrogenic cytokine TGF-β now known to be involved in the pathogenesis of both diseases.