Clarification for a
challenging diagnosis.
Comprehensive genetic analysis
Sarcomas are malignant tumors that arise in the bone and soft tissue. With numerous subtypes of sarcoma that can have overlapping histological, immunophenotypic, and clinical features, diagnosis can be extremely challenging. This challenge increases when rare subtypes are encountered for which most pathologists will have little experience. Using only histological and immunophenotypic features can lead to a high rate of inaccurate diagnoses. Published data indicates a substantial number of patients have discordant diagnoses between referring institutions and specialty centers. Supplementing the histologic diagnosis with genetic testing can improve diagnostic accuracy and overall patient management.
A Test in Focus
Andre Oliveira, M.D., Ph.D., gives an overview of this testing available through Mayo Clinic Laboratories. He discusses when this testing should be ordered, how this testing compares to previous testing approaches, and what clinical action can be taken due to the results of this testing.
Additional Resources
Mayo Clinic investigators pinpoint cause, possible treatment for rare form of sarcoma
Researchers at Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine have discovered a potential cause and a promising new treatment for inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors, a rare soft tissue cancer that does not respond to radiation or chemotherapy.