The spectrum of mesenchymal skin neoplasms reflected by the new WHO classification

Onkologie. 2004 Aug;27(4):401-6. doi: 10.1159/000079097.

Abstract

Mesenchymal tumors are a heterogeneous group of tumors often arising in the skin and soft tissue. The tumors have been reclassified by the WHO in 2002. Benign mesenchymal tumors are about a hundred times more frequent than malignant mesenchymal tumors. Clinically, mesenchymal tumors often present as skin-colored nodes. Overall, elderly persons are more affected than younger individuals. The etiology is often unknown, sometimes there is an association with insults such as radiation, scars, or lymphedematous or venous stasis. Whereas some years ago a wide excision with a margin of 3-5 cm was performed for malignant variants, today micrographic surgery is preferred, as it can avoid mutilating procedures. Early detection and removal is critical since mesenchymal skin tumors often cannot be cured by radiation or chemotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Mohs Surgery
  • Neoplasms, Mesothelial / classification*
  • Neoplasms, Mesothelial / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms, Mesothelial / surgery
  • Sarcoma / classification*
  • Sarcoma / diagnosis
  • Sarcoma / surgery
  • Skin Neoplasms / classification*
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / classification*
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / surgery
  • World Health Organization*