Groin angiosarcoma following radiotherapy for vulvar cancer

Gynecol Oncol. 2005 May;97(2):677-80. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2004.12.061.

Abstract

Background: Angiosarcomas account for less than 2% of all sarcomas. However, they represent 15% of radiotherapy-induced sarcomas, usually associated to the treatment for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and lymphomas.

Case report: We report the case of a 56-year-old patient who developed a soft tissue angiosarcoma in the right groin 25 years after receiving radiotherapy for vulvar cancer. To our knowledge, this is the second case reported of a soft tissue angiosarcoma after radiotherapy for a vulvar cancer.

Conclusion: Postradiation sarcoma must be considered in patients with a history of a previous tumor when a soft tissue mass is seen in the previously irradiated field, especially if the latent period is more than 3 or 5 years. The correct histologic interpretation of such lesions is important because it may result in early identification of the secondary malignancy and may contribute to better management and improved prognosis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Groin
  • Hemangiosarcoma / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / etiology*
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects
  • Vulvar Neoplasms / radiotherapy*