Radiation Induced Sarcoma

IMAGING FINDINGS: ​

Tangential spot MLO view of a palpable lump in the left breast shows a superficial mass with ill-defined margins. Ultrasound evaluation of the palpable area of concern demonstrates an irregular mixed echogencity superficial mass.

WHY IT MATTERS:

1. Radiation-induced sarcoma (RIS) is a rare, aggressive malignancy that occurs in a small percent of women after treatment for breast cancer with lumpectomy and radiation therapy.  The incidence is approximately 3 per 1,000 women treated with radiotherapy.
2. Radiation-induced sarcomas most commonly present with skin changes such as skin discoloration (ranging from red to purple), elevated skin, and skin thickening.  There may or may not be an associated palpable mass.
   
   
   

FURTHER READING:
Radiation-Induced Sarcoma of the Breast: A Systematic Review (The Oncologist, 2012)