A rare inherited disorder characterized by the development of benign growths called desmoid tumors or fibromatoses. The growth usually occurs in the abdomen but can occur in the neck, chest, arms and legs. Symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the growths. Even thought the growths are benign the can cause localized damage and obstruction. The condition can stabilize or become progressively worse and ultimately lead to death. The tumors often develop after some sort of trauma such as abdominal surgery or childbirth. See also Desmoid disease, hereditary