Chromosome translocations in sarcomas and the analysis of paraffin-embedded material

The identification of specific chromosome translocations in various sarcomas and the elucidation of their molecular consequences has raised the possibility of detecting their presence for diagnostic and prognostic purposes in a manner analogous to the haematological malignancies. However, it is important to correlate particular translocations, and also other genetic aberrations, with current histological diagnoses and the behaviour of tumours, in order to assess the potential benefits, if any, of identifying rearrangements. Recent developments which enable specific translocations to be identified in archival material are likely to play an increasing role in the assessment and, eventually, the management of patients with sarcomas.