Stewart-Treves syndrome following idiopathic leg lymphoedema: remember sarcoma.

Abstract

Patients with skin complaints secondary to oedema are commonly encountered and can be a diagnostic challenge. Here, we present the case of a 78-year-old lady with Stewart-Treves syndrome, a rare cutaneous angiosarcoma. The histology showed angiocutaneous sarcoma with poorly defined margins. The prognosis remains extremely poor. A successful transfemoral amputation reduced the massive tumour burden and cleared a source of sepsis from this fungating tumour. Our aim is to highlight this rare but high-grade sarcoma which results from chronic lymphoedema. The red flag signs of sarcoma are masses greater than 5 cm, tumours which are rapidly growing, deep to fascia or painful, and tumours that recur after previous surgery. Non-healing or progressive ulceration in the background of chronic lymphoedema should raise the possibility of underlying malignancy. We need a low threshold for biopsy and early referral to an appropriate multidisciplinary team for the optimum management of the patient.

• Authors: W D Harrison, C R Chandrasekar
• Journal: Journal of wound care (J Wound Care) Vol. 24 Issue 6 Suppl Pg. S5-7 (Jun 2015) ISSN: 0969-0700 [Print] England
• PMID: 26075513 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Aged
• Amputation, Surgical
• Biopsy
• Chronic Disease
• Early Detection of Cancer
• Female
• Hemangiosarcoma (diagnosis, etiology, surgery)
• Humans
• Leg
• Lymphangiosarcoma (diagnosis, etiology, surgery)
• Lymphedema (complications)
• Prognosis
• Treatment Outcome