Diagnosing Synovial Sarcoma
Synovial sarcoma is a rare form of cancer that affects the soft tissues of the body, most commonly found in the tissue surrounding the joints of the extremities and legs.
To diagnose synovial sarcoma, several examinations, tests, and procedures may be done. These help confirm the diagnosis and determine the type, severity, or stage of the condition. Here are the examinations, tests, and procedures commonly used:
- Physical Examination: During a physical exam, a healthcare provider will look for physical signs of a medical problem, such as pain, swelling, or the presence of masses within the body. This routine procedure helps identify potential areas of concern.
- Imaging Tests: Various imaging tests can be used to diagnose synovial sarcoma and determine its characteristics. These tests may include:
- MRI scan: An MRI scan is often recommended as the first step in diagnosing synovial sarcoma. It produces accurate images of soft tissue sarcomas, including tumors.
- CT scan: A CT scan can provide detailed cross-sectional images of the body and help rule out other possible conditions.
- X-ray: X-rays can be used to visualize bones and detect any abnormalities.
- Biopsy: A biopsy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a small sample of tissue from the tumor for further testing. In the case of synovial sarcoma, a needle biopsy may be performed by inserting a needle into the tumor to withdraw cells. The appearance of these cells under a microscope can confirm or rule out a diagnosis of synovial sarcoma.
- Genetic Testing: Genetic testing can be done on the tissue sample obtained from a biopsy. In more than 90 percent of synovial sarcoma cases, there is an abnormality between chromosome X and chromosome 18. Genetic testing helps identify this abnormality and further supports the diagnosis.
Once synovial sarcoma is diagnosed, additional examinations and tests may be performed to determine its type, severity, or stage. These tests may include:
- Bone Scans: Bone scans can help evaluate if the cancer has spread to the bones.
- Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Other Blood Tests: Blood tests may be used to assess overall health and detect any abnormalities.
- Clinical Procedures: Depending on the specific case and symptoms presented by an individual with synovial sarcoma, clinical procedures such as hearing tests or other evaluations specific to body systems may be recommended.
Specialists involved in diagnosing synovial sarcoma may include:
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Physician's assistants
- Lab technicians
- Radiologists
It's important to note that while these examinations, tests, and procedures are commonly used in diagnosing synovial sarcoma and determining its characteristics, it is always essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on individual circumstances.