synovialsarkom
Synovialsarkom is a rare type of soft tissue sarcoma that typically arises near large joints, particularly the knee, elbow, and ankle. Despite its name, it does not originate from the synovial membrane itself but rather from primitive mesenchymal cells that have the potential to differentiate into various cell types. It is more common in young adults and adolescents. The tumor is often characterized by a slow, painless growth and may present as a firm lump. While it can occur in any part of the body, it is most frequently found in the extremities. A hallmark feature of synovial sarcoma at a molecular level is a specific chromosomal translocation, most commonly t(X;18), which results in a fusion gene. This genetic abnormality is crucial for diagnosis. Synovial sarcoma can be biphasic, containing both epithelial and spindle cell components, or monophasic, composed predominantly of one cell type. Treatment strategies depend on the stage of the disease and may include surgical resection, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Prognosis varies, with factors like tumor size, grade, and presence of metastasis influencing the outcome.