Liposarcoma: A Journey into a Rare Tumor’s Epidemiology, Diagnosis, Pathophysiology, and Limitations of Current Therapies

Abstract

Sarcomas refer to a broad group of rare tumors that develop from bone and soft tissue. Sarcoma diagnosis is challenging because of its rarity and complexity, leading to misdiagnosis and delays in diagnosis and access to appropriate therapy. Liposarcomas are a common form of sarcoma, and there are four subtypes of liposarcomas: well-differentiated liposarcoma/atypical lipomatous tumors, dedifferentiated liposarcoma, myxoid liposarcoma, and pleomorphic liposarcoma. Treatment options are limited for those diagnosed with liposarcoma. Currently, the mainstay of therapy for primary localized liposarcoma is surgical removal of the tumor. Radiotherapy is commonly used in extremity tumors before surgery but has unproven effectiveness in the retroperitoneum. Chemotherapy sensitivity varies by liposarcoma subtype, further complicating treatment. As such, limited conventional treatment options (e.g., radiotherapy or chemotherapy) remain substantial barriers to care. This review provides information about the epidemiology, pathology, and treatment options currently available for liposarcoma.