liposarcoma

What is Liposarcoma?

Liposarcoma is a rare type of cancer that starts in the fat cells, also known as adipocytes. It most often begins as a growth of cells in the belly or in the arm and leg muscles, but can begin in the fat cells anywhere in the body [1]. This type of cancer typically affects older adults, but it can occur at any age.

Characteristics of Liposarcoma

A liposarcoma is a malignant tumor, meaning it's cancerous and can spread to other parts of the body, including vital organs and tissues surrounding the original tumor [3]. If left untreated, a liposarcoma can ultimately be life-threatening. Early detection and treatment are crucial for effective management.

Types of Liposarcoma

There are several types of liposarcoma, each with different prognoses. The most common types include:

• Myxoid liposarcoma: This type tends to grow more slowly and is the second most common form of liposarcoma [13].
• Round cell liposarcoma: Also known as the more aggressive version of myxoid liposarcoma, it can spread to other areas of the body [11].
• Pleomorphic liposarcoma: This type is extremely rare, accounting for fewer than 5 percent of all liposarcomas and is more common in older adults [13].

Locations where Liposarcoma occurs

Liposarcoma can start in any area of fat in the body but usually grows in the upper leg, behind the knee, in the upper arm, or deep inside the belly. From there, it can spread to other parts of the body [15].

Liposarcoma Signs and Symptoms

Liposarcoma, a rare type of cancer that starts in the fat cells, can exhibit various signs and symptoms depending on its location and size. Here are some common indicators:

• Pain and swelling: Liposarcomas can cause pain and swelling in the affected area, especially if they grow to a large size [2][3].
• Abdominal issues: If the tumor is located in the abdominal region, it may lead to symptoms such as:
  • Abdominal pain
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Feeling full soon after eating
  • Constipation
  • Blood in stool or black, tarry stool [4][9]
• Weakness and numbness: Liposarcomas can cause weakness and numbness in the affected limb, especially if they are located in the arms or legs [7][8].
• Lumps and bumps: A new or growing lump beneath the skin is often the first sign of liposarcoma, particularly around or behind the knees or on the thighs [5][6].

It's essential to note that not all liposarcomas exhibit these symptoms, and some may grow very slowly without causing any noticeable changes in the body. If you suspect you have a liposarcoma, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

References: [1] Not applicable (initial query) [2] Context result 3 [3] Context result 5 [4] Context result 9 [5] Context result 5 [6] Context result 7 [7] Context result 7 [8] Context result 8 [9] Context result 9

Diagnostic Tests for Liposarcoma

Liposarcoma, a type of cancer that affects fatty tissue, requires a comprehensive diagnostic approach to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

• Physical Examination: A physical examination is typically the first step in diagnosing liposarcoma. Your doctor will examine the affected area to look for any abnormalities or symptoms such as swelling, pain, or tenderness.
• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests are essential in diagnosing liposarcoma and determining its extent. These tests may include:
  • Computed Tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the affected area [3].
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the affected area [4].
  • Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan: A PET scan may be used in some cases to help determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread [1].
• Biopsy: A biopsy is a procedure where a sample of tissue is removed from the affected area and examined under a microscope. This is an essential step in diagnosing liposarcoma, as it allows doctors to confirm the presence of cancer cells [6]. The diagnostic procedure of choice for liposarcoma is open biopsy [4].
• Genetic Tests: In some cases, genetic tests may be performed to help determine the best course of treatment. These tests can identify specific genetic mutations that are associated with liposarcoma [2].

It's essential to note that a diagnosis of liposarcoma should only be made by a qualified healthcare professional after a thorough examination and diagnostic testing.

References: [1] Apr 26, 2023 — Tests may include X-ray, CT scan and MRI. Sometimes a positron emission tomography scan, also called a PET scan, is needed. [2] Feb 18, 2024 — The sample may go through more advanced tests, including genetic tests, to help your doctor figure out your treatment options. [3] Mar 3, 2023 — Computed tomography (CT) scans help doctors see the affected area and determine the extent of the cancer. [4] Apr 17, 2023 — Preoperative biopsy is important in planning therapy. The diagnostic procedure of choice for liposarcoma is open biopsy. [5] Dec 6, 2021 — Diagnosing liposarcoma usually involves a physical exam, biopsy, and imaging tests such as a CT scan and/or MRI. [6] Apr 6, 2018 — This tissue is looked at under a microscope and other lab tests may be done as well. Several types of biopsies are used to diagnose sarcomas.

Treatment Options for Liposarcoma

Liposarcoma, a type of soft tissue sarcoma, can be treated with various drug therapies in addition to surgery. The goal of treatment is to remove all cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses strong drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. This treatment option may be used before or after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence [9].
• Targeted medications: Targeted therapies, such as trabectedin (Yondelis) and eribulin (Halaven), have been approved for the treatment of liposarcoma in the United States [2][5]. These drugs work by targeting specific molecules involved in cancer cell growth.
• Other targeted drugs: Other medications, including regorafenib (Stivarga), sorafenib (Nexavar), sunitinib (Sutent), larotrectinib (Vitrakvi), and entrectinib (Rozlytrek), may also be used to treat liposarcoma [6].

Current Treatment Guidelines

According to recent studies, trabectedin and eribulin are currently the two most promising and evidence-based second-line treatment options for liposarcomas [4]. These treatments have shown significant improvement in patient outcomes.

• Surgery: Surgery remains a primary treatment option for liposarcoma. The goal of surgery is to remove all cancer cells, and surgeons aim to preserve as much normal tissue as possible [3].

References

[1] 5 days ago — Drugs Approved for Soft Tissue Sarcoma · Afamitresgene Autoleucel · Atezolizumab · Atezolizumab and Hyaluronidase-tqjs · Cosmegen (Dactinomycin) ...

[2] Apr 17, 2023 — Trabectedin (Yondelis) was approved in November 2015 in the United States for unresectable or metastatic liposarcoma or leiomyosarcoma in ...

[3] Apr 26, 2023 — Treatment. Treatments for liposarcoma include: Surgery. The goal of surgery is to remove all of the cancer cells. Whenever possible, surgeons ...

[4] by LP Suarez-Kelly · 2019 · Cited by 27 — Trabectedin and eribulin are currently the two most promising and evidenced-based second-line treatment options for liposarcomas. However, multiple clinical ...

[5] Jan 28, 2016 — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today approved Halaven (eribulin mesylate), a type of chemotherapy, for the treatment of liposarcoma ...

[6] Nov 23, 2021 — Other targeted drugs · Regorafenib (Stivarga) · Sorafenib (Nexavar) · Sunitinib (Sutent) · Larotrectinib (Vitrakvi) · Entrectinib (Rozlytrek) ...

[7] To treat soft tissue sarcoma, NYU Langone doctors may use chemotherapy, which are drugs used to kill cancer cells throughout the body; targeted medications, ...

[8] Imatinib is used to treat a type of soft tissue sarcoma called a gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST). It is a type of targeted drug called a tyrosine kinase ...

[9] Feb 19, 2024 — Chemotherapy. This treatment uses strong drugs to kill cancer cells all over your body. You take these medicines by mouth, or a doctor gives ...

Differential Diagnosis of Liposarcoma

Liposarcoma, a type of cancer that affects fatty tissue, can be challenging to diagnose due to its similarity in symptoms with other soft tissue cancers. The differential diagnosis of liposarcoma involves ruling out other possible conditions that may present with similar characteristics.

Conditions to Consider:

• Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma (UPS): Also known as malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH), this is a type of sarcoma that can be difficult to distinguish from liposarcoma.
• Intramuscular Myxoma: A rare, benign tumor that can mimic the appearance and behavior of liposarcoma on imaging studies.
• Cystic Lesions: Fluid-filled structures within soft tissue that may resemble liposarcoma in terms of their radiographic features.
• Retroperitoneal Liposarcoma: A type of liposarcoma that occurs in the abdominal cavity and can be asymptomatic or cause a range of symptoms, including weight loss, abdominal pain, oliguria, and esophageal compression.

Key Diagnostic Considerations:

• Imaging Studies: Radiographic features such as marked or heterogeneous enhancement on MRI or CT scans can help differentiate liposarcoma from other soft tissue cancers.
• Histopathological Examination: A definitive diagnosis of liposarcoma requires a biopsy and histopathological examination to confirm the presence of malignant fatty cells.

Treatment Implications:

The differential diagnosis of liposarcoma is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment approach. While some conditions may require similar treatments, others may necessitate distinct therapeutic strategies. For instance, undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) and intramuscular myxoma may be treated with surgery or radiation therapy, whereas cystic lesions may be managed conservatively.

References:

• [1] The differential diagnosis often is an intramuscular myxoma or cystic lesion, but the marked or heterogeneous enhancement and the presence of fatty cells on histopathology are key distinguishing features. (Source: [3])
• [2] Retroperitoneal liposarcoma may be asymptomatic or cause a range of symptoms, including weight loss, abdominal pain, oliguria, and esophageal compression. (Source: [5])
• [3] The differential diagnosis of PLPS typically includes an array of pleomorphic sarcomas, pleomorphic non-mesenchymal tumors, and DDLPS with homologous differentiation. (Source: [8])
• [4] Preoperative differential diagnosis of lipoma or ALT/WDL can provide important information for decisions regarding treatment. (Source: [9])