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Pleomorphic liposarcoma: a clinicopathologic analysis of 19 cases
K A Downes1, J R Goldblum, E A Montgomery
1Department of Anatomic Pathology, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio 44195, USA.
Summary
Pleomorphic liposarcoma is a rare, aggressive adult sarcoma, often found in deep extremity soft tissues. This high-grade tumor frequently metastasizes, primarily to the lungs, with no specific features predicting its course.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pathology
- Surgical Oncology
Background:
- Pleomorphic liposarcoma is a rare variant of liposarcoma.
- Limited long-term follow-up data exists due to its rarity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the clinical and pathological features of pleomorphic liposarcoma.
- To evaluate the long-term outcomes and behavior of this rare sarcoma.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 19 pleomorphic liposarcoma cases.
- Inclusion criteria required unequivocal pleomorphic lipoblasts.
- Data collected included tumor site, size, depth, histology, necrosis, mitoses, treatment, and clinical follow-up.
Main Results:
- The study included 19 patients (11 female, 8 male, mean age 64.5 years).
- Tumors commonly occurred in extremities (13), retroperitoneum (4), mediastinum (1), and paratesticular region (1).
- 50% of patients died of disease, with frequent lung metastasis and recurrence, particularly in those with extensive necrosis.
Conclusions:
- Pleomorphic liposarcoma is a rare, high-grade adult sarcoma of deep soft tissues, predominantly affecting extremities.
- It exhibits frequent metastasis, primarily to the lungs, and a high rate of recurrence.
- No specific clinical or pathological feature reliably predicts a more aggressive course.