Work

Synovial Sarcoma Among Adults: From Epidemiology to Clinical Presentation, Current Diagnostic Standards, Treatment Methods and Prognosis

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Aim: This article aims to comprehensively analyse the available literature on synovial sarcoma (SS), focusing on its pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic strategies, treatment approaches, and emerging therapeutic research. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, ClinicalKey and Google Scholar using the keywords synovial sarcoma and soft tissue sarcoma. A total of 104 peer-reviewed articles published within 1914-2025 were selected based on relevance, methodological quality and contribution to the field. Results: SS is a rare soft tissue sarcoma (STS), accounting for 2–4.2% of all STS cases. It predominantly affects adults aged 20–44 years, with 10% of cases occurring among children. The tumor most commonly arises in the extremities, particularly the lower limbs, and typically presents as a painless mass. Diagnosis relies on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) followed by biopsy, histopathological analysis, and molecular testing for SYT-SSX fusion genes. The mainstay of treatment is en bloc surgical resection, with radiotherapy and chemotherapy (e.g., doxorubicin + ifosfamide) serving as adjunct therapies in select cases. Conclusions: SS presents a significant clinical challenge due to its rarity, nonspecific symptoms, and aggressive nature. Early detection of tumors, particularly those <5 cm, is crucial for improving outcomes. Multidisciplinary management in specialized sarcoma centers is essential for optimizing treatment strategies. Further research is needed to explore targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and molecular-driven treatment approaches to improve long-term prognosis.

Source: Archiv Euromedica

DOI: 10.35630/2025/15/2.211