Pleomorphic undifferentiated sarcoma

Pleomorphic undifferentiated sarcoma (PUS), formerly known as malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH), is a type of cancer that develops in the connective tissue. It is a rare and aggressive form of soft tissue sarcoma.

Overview

Pleomorphic undifferentiated sarcoma is characterized by its pleomorphic (varied) appearance under the microscope. The term "undifferentiated" refers to the fact that the cells in this type of sarcoma do not resemble the body's normal cells. This makes it difficult to determine the tissue of origin, hence the classification as a sarcoma, a type of cancer that arises from transformed cells of mesenchymal origin.

Symptoms

The symptoms of pleomorphic undifferentiated sarcoma can vary depending on the location of the tumor. Common symptoms include a noticeable lump or swelling, pain (if the tumor is pressing against nerves or muscles), and fatigue. In some cases, there may be no symptoms until the tumor has grown large.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of pleomorphic undifferentiated sarcoma typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan, and a biopsy to examine the cells under a microscope. The diagnosis is often challenging due to the undifferentiated nature of the cells.

Treatment

Treatment for pleomorphic undifferentiated sarcoma usually involves surgery to remove the tumor. This may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the size and location of the tumor, the patient's overall health, and whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

Prognosis

The prognosis for pleomorphic undifferentiated sarcoma depends on a variety of factors, including the size and location of the tumor, the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, and the patient's overall health. Despite aggressive treatment, this type of sarcoma can often recur and may spread to other parts of the body.

See also

• Soft tissue sarcoma
• Cancer
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy