Medical imaging for the diagnosis, recurrence and metastasis evaluation of clear cell sarcoma

Abstract

Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) of soft tissue is extremely rare, accounting for approximately 1% of all soft tissue tumours. It is very difficult to diagnose CCS based on clinical manifestations. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides high-resolution images of soft tissues and pathological features such as mucus, necrosis, bleeding, and fat through high and low signals on T1 weighted image (T1WI) and T2 weighted image (T2WI). On the other hand, the paramagnetism of melanin in CCS shortens the relaxation time of T1 and T2, and high signal intensity on T1WI and low signal intensity on T2WI can be found. This is different from most other soft tissue sarcomas. At present, the treatment method for CCS is surgical resection. MRI can effectively display the tumour edge, extent of surrounding oedema, and extent of fat involvement, which is highly important for guiding surgical resection and predicting postoperative recurrence. As an invasive sarcoma, CCS has a high risk of metastasis. Regardless of the pathological condition of the resected tumour, MRI or computed tomography (CT) should be performed every 1-2 years to assess recurrence at the primary site and to screen for metastasis in the lungs, liver, and bones. If necessary, PET-CT can be performed to evaluate the overall condition of the patient.

Keywords: Clear cell sarcoma; Computed tomography; Editorial; Magnetic resonance imaging; Metastasis; Recurrence.