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Synovial sarcoma of the neck
Naoki Ochi1, Masaki Uozumi, Kiyoshi Doi
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University Hospital, Kusunoki-cho 7-5-1, Chuo-Ku, Kobe 650-0017, Japan.
Summary
Synovial sarcoma, a rare head and neck cancer, can be diagnosed using a specific genetic marker. The SSX-SYT fusion gene detection via RT-PCR aids in identifying this challenging soft tissue sarcoma.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Pathology
Background:
- Synovial sarcoma is a rare soft tissue sarcoma with infrequent head and neck presentation.
- Morphological variations and rarity contribute to diagnostic challenges in head and neck cases.
Observation:
- A case of synovial sarcoma originating in the upper neck is detailed.
- The study focused on detecting the characteristic chromosomal translocation t(X;18)(p11.2;q11.2).
Findings:
- A specific SSX-SYT fusion gene was identified using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
- This genetic marker was detected in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded surgical specimens.
Implications:
- The characteristic chromosomal translocation in synovial sarcoma is a valuable diagnostic tool.
- RT-PCR enables detection of this translocation in both fresh and archival paraffin-embedded tissues, improving diagnostic capabilities.