Angiosarcoma of the scalp
Angiosarcoma of the Scalp Angiosarcoma of the scalp is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that originates in the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels of the scalp. This condition is a subtype of angiosarcoma, which can occur in various parts of the body. Due to its rarity and aggressive nature, angiosarcoma of the scalp presents unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Patients with angiosarcoma of the scalp often present with a bruise-like lesion or a rapidly growing mass on the scalp. These lesions may be mistaken for benign conditions initially, leading to delays in diagnosis. Symptoms can include:
- A purplish or reddish lesion on the scalp
- Bleeding or ulceration of the lesion
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of angiosarcoma of the scalp typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and histopathological examination. Key diagnostic steps include:
- Biopsy: A biopsy of the lesion is essential to confirm the diagnosis. Histological examination reveals atypical endothelial cells and irregular vascular channels.
- Imaging: MRI and CT scans can help assess the extent of the disease and detect any metastasis.
Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
Angiosarcoma of the scalp arises from the endothelial cells of blood vessels. The exact cause is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified, including:
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment of angiosarcoma of the scalp is challenging due to its aggressive nature. Options include:
- Surgical Resection: Wide local excision with clear margins is the primary treatment.
- Radiation Therapy: Often used postoperatively to reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Chemotherapy: May be used in cases of metastatic disease or when surgery is not feasible.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for angiosarcoma of the scalp is generally poor, with a high rate of local recurrence and distant metastasis. Early detection and aggressive treatment are crucial for improving outcomes.
Research and Future Directions[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms of angiosarcoma and developing targeted therapies. Clinical trials are exploring the efficacy of novel agents and immunotherapies.
See Also[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
- National Organization for Rare Disorders
- [American Cancer Society](https://www.cancer.org)
NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]
Angiosarcoma of the scalp is a rare disease.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
