Myxoid Liposarcoma

Myxoid liposarcoma is named for its appearance under a microscope. The tumor cells produce a gel-like, mucus-like substance called myxoid material that fills most of the tumor. These tumors often grow slowly.

You might also hear it referred to as myxoid/round cell liposarcoma (MRCLS), which includes tumors with a higher number of "round cells." These round cell tumors tend to grow faster and behave more aggressively.

Myxoid liposarcoma is classified into two subtypes:

• Low-grade (pure myxoid liposarcoma): It typically grows more slowly.
• High-grade (myxoid/round cell liposarcoma): It grows more quickly and is more aggressive.

Approximately 2,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with liposarcoma each year. Myxoid/round cell liposarcoma is the second most common type, accounting for about 30% of all liposarcoma cases. It is most frequently seen in people between the ages of 20 and 40 and is rare in children under 10 years old.

In the early stages of myxoid liposarcoma, many people don’t notice any symptoms. The most common early sign is a visible lump in the affected area. This lump is usually painless but may cause discomfort if it presses on a nerve or nearby tissue.

As the tumor grows, symptoms may include:

• Visible lump under the skin
• Pain or discomfort in the affected area
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Unintended weight loss

These symptoms vary depending on the tumor's size and location, so we recommend seeking medical attention if you notice any unusual lumps.

The exact cause of myxoid liposarcoma is still unknown. However, what is known is that most MLPS cases involve a genetic error where a chromosome (a structure in your cells that holds your genes) breaks and reassembles incorrectly, leading to malfunctioning cells.

In many cases of MLPS, a specific genetic change called a translocation occurs. This is when a piece of one chromosome swaps places with a piece of another chromosome. In MLPS, a gene called FUS fuses with a gene called CHOP. This fusion is found in nearly all cases and is believed to play a critical role in how the tumor develops.

MLPS is not known to be hereditary. However, certain genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and neurofibromatosis, may increase the risk of developing myxoid liposarcoma.

Many people with myxoid liposarcoma may not realize they have it because a lump might not appear until the tumor grows large enough to be noticeable. If the lump isn’t causing pain, it’s easy to overlook. However, we advise you to see your doctor if you notice any new or unusual lumps.

At Sarcoma Oncology Center, our oncologist may begin with a physical examination and ask about symptoms. We may suggest the following tests for the diagnosis of myxoid liposarcoma:

• Imaging: If MLPS is suspected, we may ask for imaging tests like CT or MRI scans to determine the tumor's size, location, and whether it has spread to other areas of the body.
• Biopsy: To confirm if the tumor is MLPS, you may need a biopsy. This involves using a needle to take a small tissue sample from the tumor. The sample is then examined under a microscope to identify the type of tumor and confirm the diagnosis.

Our team creates a multimodal treatment plan tailored to your tumor's grade, size, and stage. Treatment options for myxoid liposarcoma may include:

• Surgery: Surgery is commonly used to remove the tumor while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be administered before surgery to shrink the tumor, making it easier to remove. It can also be used after surgery if there’s concern that some tumor cells remain.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is an option for tumors that are difficult to treat surgically or when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
• Clinical Trial: In cases where traditional treatments prove ineffective, our oncologists at Sarcoma Oncology Center may recommend clinical trials to treat myxoid liposarcoma. These trials tend to explore emerging therapies and medications as treatment options.

Several factors can influence the prognosis for myxoid liposarcoma, including:

• Age
• Tumor grade
• Tumor size
• Type of treatment
• Response to treatment

The 5-year survival rate for patients with localized MRCLS (small and not spread to other parts of the body) is over 80%. Regular follow-up care is crucial to monitor for recurrence or spread. However, the outlook is less favorable for patients whose MRCLS has metastasized to other areas.

Myxoid liposarcoma requires a specialized approach for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. At Sarcoma Oncology Center, our team of specialists provides comprehensive, evidence-based sarcoma care tailored to each case to ensure the best possible outcomes.

At our office in Santa Monica, we design personalized and innovative plans for treating myxoid liposarcoma.

To schedule a consultation, please call us at 424-699-3862 or request an appointment online.