[Cutaneous angiosarcoma]

Abstract

Background and objectives: Angiosarcomas of the skin arise almost exclusively in the following clinical settings: 1. the face and scalp, usually in elderly individuals, 2. lymphedematous regions (lymphedema-associated angiosarcomas), and 3. skin that has been previously irradiated (post-radiation angiosarcomas). Clinical and histopathologic diagnosis of angiosarcoma is difficult often resulting in great delay that obviates against early and possibly successful treatment of these very aggressive neoplasms. Diagnostic problems are described, and prognostic factors as well as the effect of different forms of treatment on the outcome are discussed.

Patients/methods: Retrospective study of 11 patients with cutaneous angiosarcomas. Clinical presentation, histopathology, therapy and survival time are analysed.

Results: Only 1 of 11 cases cutaneous angiosarcoma was clinically identified. Survival time was 1-24 months. Three patients who received radical surgery have not developed metastases and are still alive.

Conclusions: Clinical and histopathologic diagnosis of cutaneous angiosarcomas is often very difficult. Prognosis is very bad; radical surgery seems to be the best therapeutical option.