Advanced
Technical
IVT
Cutaneous Angiosarcoma
Pronunciation: an-jee-oh-sar-KOH-mah
A rare, aggressive malignant tumor arising from blood or lymphatic vessels in the skin.
Full Definition
Cutaneous angiosarcoma is an uncommon but highly aggressive vascular malignancy that can arise in the skin and subcutaneous tissues. It most commonly affects elderly patients and can occur spontaneously or in association with chronic lymphedema or prior radiation therapy. The tumor presents with rapidly growing, often multifocal lesions that may appear bruise-like or nodular. Due to its aggressive nature and tendency for local recurrence and metastasis, wide surgical excision with clear margins is the preferred treatment when feasible.
In Context
- "The biopsy revealed cutaneous angiosarcoma with high mitotic activity and endothelial atypia." — Pathology report
- "Given the diagnosis of cutaneous angiosarcoma, wide excision with 2-3 cm margins was recommended." — Treatment planning note
Also known as
vascular sarcoma
hemangiosarcoma
Contrasted with
benign vascular lesion
hemangioma
Don't confuse with
atypical vascular lesion
Kaposi sarcoma