RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Radiation-induced sarcoma presenting as a gluteal abscess: a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge
JF BMJ Case Reports
JO BMJ Case Reports
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
SP e236601
DO 10.1136/bcr-2020-236601
VO 13
IS 12
A1 Sudharshan Mahalingam
A1 Sudharsanan Sundaramurthi
A1 Balamourougan Krishnaraj
A1 Sarath Chandra Sistla
YR 2020
UL http://casereports.bmj.com/content/13/12/e236601.abstract
AB Sarcomas are a rare and fatal treatment complication following radiotherapy. Radiation-induced sarcomas (RISs) presenting as a gluteal abscess is a rarity, accounting for its varied presentation. We present a case of a middle-aged woman, post-chemo-radiation for carcinoma cervix 5 years ago, who presented with gluteal abscess. Achieving haemostasis post incision and drainage under anaesthesia was a challenge. On further evaluation, she was diagnosed with radiation-induced gluteal soft tissue sarcoma. Haemostasis was achieved after radiation following failed attempts of surgical and radiological interventions. She is currently planned for chemotherapy. Cancer survivors have an increased risk of developing a second malignancy following radiation treatment. RISs are highly aggressive, exhibit a varied clinical presentation and pose a challenge in early diagnosis; thus, have a poor outcome. RISs pose a diagnostic challenge; any dubious lesion in the previously irradiated field should raise suspicion and prompt aggressive management.