Angiosarcoma: Pathophysiology and Epidemiology

Angiosarcoma is a cancer of the inner lining of blood vessels that may usually occur in any area of the body.

Body Parts Affected:

- Skin

- Breast

- Liver

- Spleen

- Deep tissue

Angiosarcomas are malignant sarcomas formed from vascular endothelial cell. Endothelial cells make up the lining of vessels.

Types of Angiosarcoma:

Several broad classifications have been identified to divide these tumours into categories based on the presenting clinical scenario. The types include,

- Cutaneous angiosarcoma without associated lymphedema

- Cutaneous angiosarcoma with associated lymphedema

- Primary breast angiosarcomas

- Angiosarcomas of the deep soft tissue

- Radiation-induced angiosarcoma

- Angiosarcoma associated with foreign material

Symptoms of Angiosarcoma:

Angiosarcoma signs and symptoms may vary based on where the cancer occurs.

Angiosarcoma that affects the skin

- A raised, purplish area of skin that looks like a bruise

- A bruise-like lesion that grows larger over time

- A lesion that may bleed when scratched or bumped

- Swelling in the surrounding skin

Angiosarcoma that affects organs

When angiosarcoma affects organs, such as the liver or the heart, it often causes pain.

Risk factors of Angiosarcoma:

Factors that may increase your risk of angiosarcoma include:

- Radiation therapy

- Lymphedema

- Chemicals

Diagnosis of Angiosarcoma:

- Primary physical examination is required.

- Imaging tests like an MRI, CT, or PET scan can help pinpoint the location and size of the tumor. They can show your doctor if the disease has spread in your body.

- A biopsy can confirm a diagnosis.

Treatment of Angiosarcoma:

Angiosarcomas ideally require medical attention from a knowledgeable experienced multidisciplinary medical center team. This team includes surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists. Decisions on whether to proceed with surgery initially, or by other modalities alone or with surgery is made by this team and the patient.