Data regarding
DNA content parameters in
soft tissue sarcoma is limited. Development and optimization of tissue specific preparative techniques for
DNA flow cytometry was undertaken prior to routine
DNA content analysis of
soft tissue neoplasms; 154 soft tissue
tumors were studied. Dissociation dependent differences in cellular yields, viabilities, maintenance of
DNA aneuploid populations, coefficients of variation, and
DNA index supported the need for these developmental studies. Fifty-six of eighty-nine patients had
DNA aneuploid soft tissue sarcomas. A relationship between
DNA aneuploidy and grade was seen in this series with 38% with low grade, 59% with moderate grade, and 69% with high grade
tumors demonstrating
DNA aneuploid populations (P < 0.005). The mean S-phase fraction for
DNA diploid and
aneuploid sarcomas was 7.2% and 13.3%, respectively (P < 0.001). When classified by histologic grade of the primary
tumor, a greater percentage of metastatic lesions were
DNA aneuploid (4 of 7 grade 2 lesions, and 15 of 16 grade 3 lesions). Decreases in cellular yields and rate of
DNA aneuploidy were observed in a subgroup of patients with localized high grade
sarcoma treated preoperatively, as compared to patients treated with initial surgery. Prospective correlation of
DNA content parameters to prognosis and response to cytotoxic
therapy are now possible and are ongoing.