Synovial sarcoma: the misdiagnosed sarcoma

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genetics
• Pathology

Background:

• Synovial sarcoma (SS) is a rare, highly malignant soft tissue sarcoma.
• Its early symptoms are often inconspicuous and diverse, leading to frequent misdiagnosis.
• Challenging management and poor prognosis underscore the need for early diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review synovial sarcoma (SS) focusing on clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.
• To highlight the importance of early and accurate diagnosis for patient outcomes.
• To discuss the role of SS18 gene rearrangement in diagnosing SS.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical and radiological presentation.
• Histological and cytogenetic analysis, including SS18 gene rearrangement detection.
• Evaluation of treatment modalities: surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

Main Results:

• SS18 gene rearrangement is a key diagnostic marker for synovial sarcoma.
• Biopsies and gene rearrangement testing are recommended when SS is suspected.
• Treatment strategies depend on tumor size, margins, and disease stage.

Conclusions:

• Early and correct diagnosis, particularly through SS18 gene rearrangement testing, is critical.
• Multimodal treatment including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy is essential.
• Timely intervention significantly impacts the prognosis of synovial sarcoma.