Review of the medical literature and assessment of current utilization patterns regarding the use of two common fluorescence in situ hybridization assays in the diagnosis of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans and clear cell sarcoma

Abstract

Background: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a tumor of intermediate malignancy, which in selected circumstances can pose difficulty in diagnosis. Clear cell sarcoma (CCS) is a very rare aggressive soft tissue sarcoma that can be difficult to distinguish histologically from melanoma.

Methods: The current literature on t(17;22) COL1A1-PDGFB fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assay in DFSP was reviewed. Also reviewed was the current literature on dual color break-apart EWSR1 FISH assay in CCS. Finally, the current utilization patterns of these tests was assessed in attendees of the American Society of Dermatopathology annual meeting (Chicago, 2016).

Results: The literature indicates that (17;22) COL1A1-PDGFB FISH assay has limited value for classic DFSP, where the diagnosis can be established by routine morphology and immunohistochemistry. Given the high specificity of the EWSR1 FISH assay and significant complexity in the diagnosis of CCS, this ancillary study is helpful in distinguishing CCS from melanoma.

Conclusions: In attendees, t(17;22) COL1A1-PDGFB FISH testing for classic cases of DFSP is appropriately not being used by respondents. However, the literature sustains that it is useful in selected circumstances in which a definitive diagnosis is challenging. The majority of respondents are utilizing the EWSR1 FISH assay to distinguish CSS from melanoma as is supported by the literature.

Keywords: EWSR1; clear cell sarcoma; dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans; fluorescence in situ hybridization; t(17;22) COL1A1-PDGFB.