Cutaneous angiosarcoma: a current update

J Clin Pathol. 2017 Nov;70(11):917-925. doi: 10.1136/jclinpath-2017-204601. Epub 2017 Sep 15.

Abstract

Cutaneous angiosarcoma (cAS) is a rare malignant neoplasm with variable clinical presentation. Although a distinct vascular tumour, cAS shares many overlapping histopathological features with other vasoformative and epithelioid tumours or 'mimickers'. cAS shows aggressive behaviour and carries a grave prognosis, thus early diagnosis is of paramount importance to achieve the best possible outcomes. Recently, several genetic studies were conducted leading to the identification of novel molecular targets in the treatment of cAS. Herein, we present a comprehensive review of cAS with discussion of its clinical, histopathological and molecular aspects, the differential diagnosis, as well as current therapies including ongoing clinical trials.

Keywords: angiosarcoma; cutaneous vascular lesions; histologic mimickers; histopathology; immunohistochemistry; molecular and therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor* / analysis
  • Biomarkers, Tumor* / genetics
  • Biopsy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Hemangiosarcoma* / chemistry
  • Hemangiosarcoma* / genetics
  • Hemangiosarcoma* / pathology
  • Hemangiosarcoma* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Molecular Diagnostic Techniques
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Phenotype
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Risk Factors
  • Skin Neoplasms* / chemistry
  • Skin Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Skin Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor