Postradiation sarcoma: Case report and review of the potential complications of therapeutic ionizing radiation

Journal Article (Review;Journal)

BACKGROUND. Radiation therapy is an acceptable treatment choice for many cutaneous malignancies. A potential late sequela of ionizing radiation is the development of secondary neoplasms within the treatment field. Although there are well-known cutaneous syndromes in which the use of ionizing radiation is contraindicated, in other clinical situations, physicians may not fully realize the risks associated with this therapeutic modality. OBJECTIVE. Through a case report presentation, a potential adverse consequence of radiation therapy will be discussed. A subsequent review of the literature should allow clinicians to better understand the potential risks of therapeutic radiation. METHODS. A case report and review of the literature are provided. RESULTS. A healthy black male with an unusual distribution of lower extremity squamous cell carcinomas in situ developed a malignant fibrous histiocytoma after radiation therapy. CONCLUSION. Postradiation sarcomas are uncommon complications of radiation therapy; however, the significant metastatic capabilities of these tumors demand that clinicians be aware of the potential risks of primary radiation therapy in the treatment of cutaneous tumors. © 2005 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Fangman, WL; Cook, JL

Published Date

  • January 1, 2005

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 31 / 8 PART 1

Start / End Page

  • 966 - 972

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1524-4725

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1076-0512

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1111/j.1524-4725.2005.31815

Citation Source

  • Scopus