Chapter 93 • In the United States, there are 11,280 new cases annually; fewer than 1% of cancer diagnoses. • No specific etiologic agent is identifiable in the majority of cases. • Occasional cases are related to previous radiation, chemical exposure, alkylating chemotherapeutic agents, or chronic lymphedema. • Genetic conditions related to soft-tissue sarcoma include neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis, basal cell nevus syndrome, Gardner syndrome, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome. • Core-needle biopsy (large lesions) or excisional biopsy (small lesions). • Pathological review of histologic subtype, grade, and assessment of margins (excisional biopsies). • Magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography (CT) of primary site. • Chest x-ray for low-grade tumors and high-grade T1 lesions, chest CT for high-grade T2 tumors. • High-grade histology, deep location, and T2 tumor size are independent adverse prognostic factors for distant metastasis and survival. • Presentation with recurrent disease and positive surgical margin (gross or microscopic) are independent adverse prognostic factors for local recurrence. • Individual patient prognosis may be estimated by using a nomogram or newer techniques.
Sarcomas of Soft Tissue
Summary of Key Points
Incidence and Epidemiology
Diagnosis and Evaluation of Extent of Disease
Prognostic Factors
Sarcomas of Soft Tissue
