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Disease Profile

Angiosarcoma of the scalp

Prevalence
Prevalence estimates on Rare Medical Network websites are calculated based on data available from numerous sources, including US and European government statistics, the NIH, Orphanet, and published epidemiologic studies. Rare disease population data is recognized to be highly variable, and based on a wide variety of source data and methodologies, so the prevalence data on this site should be assumed to be estimated and cannot be considered to be absolutely correct.

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Age of onset

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ICD-10

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Inheritance

Autosomal dominant A pathogenic variant in only one gene copy in each cell is sufficient to cause an autosomal dominant disease.

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Autosomal recessive Pathogenic variants in both copies of each gene of the chromosome are needed to cause an autosomal recessive disease and observe the mutant phenotype.

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X-linked
dominant X-linked dominant inheritance, sometimes referred to as X-linked dominance, is a mode of genetic inheritance by which a dominant gene is carried on the X chromosome.

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X-linked
recessive Pathogenic variants in both copies of a gene on the X chromosome cause an X-linked recessive disorder.

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Mitochondrial or multigenic Mitochondrial genetic disorders can be caused by changes (mutations) in either the mitochondrial DNA or nuclear DNA that lead to dysfunction of the mitochondria and inadequate production of energy.

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Multigenic or multifactor Inheritance involving many factors, of which at least one is genetic but none is of overwhelming importance, as in the causation of a disease by multiple genetic and environmental factors.

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Not applicable

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Categories

Rare Cancers

Summary

Angiosarcoma of the scalp is a very rare cancer which most commonly affects the elderly. Symptoms of this condition begin with a bruise-like lesions that progresses to an open or bleeding wound. These lesions will grow in size and, without treatment, the cancer will spread to other parts of the body (metastasis), usually the lungs. The cause of angiosarcoma of the scalp is unknown, although several associations have been reported, including abnormal swelling of the lymph nodes (lymphedema), prior radiation treatment, and environmental exposures. It is diagnosed based on the symptoms and through a biopsy of the affected area of the scalp. Treatment may include surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.[1] The long-term outlook for this rare cancer depends on how early it is diagnosed and the response to treatment.[1][2][3]

Organizations

Support and advocacy groups can help you connect with other patients and families, and they can provide valuable services. Many develop patient-centered information and are the driving force behind research for better treatments and possible cures. They can direct you to research, resources, and services. Many organizations also have experts who serve as medical advisors or provide lists of doctors/clinics. Visit the group’s website or contact them to learn about the services they offer. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement by GARD.

Organizations Supporting this Disease

    Learn more

    These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

    Where to Start

    • The Sarcoma Foundation of America provides general information about angiosarcoma. Click on the link to access this information.
    • DermNet NZ is an online resource about skin diseases developed by the New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated. DermNet NZ provides information about this condition.
    • The National Cancer Institute provides the most current information on cancer for patients, health professionals, and the general public.

      In-Depth Information

      • Medscape Reference provides information on this topic. You may need to register to view the medical textbook, but registration is free.
      • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Angiosarcoma of the scalp. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

        References

        1. Fujisawa Y, Yoshino K, Fugimura T, Nakamura Y, Okiyama N, Ishitsuka Y et al. Cutaneous angiosarcoma: The possibility of new treatment options especially for patients with large primary tumor. Front Oncol. Mar 2018; 8(46):epub. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29552543.
        2. Spiker AM, Ramsey ML. Cancer, Angiosarcoma. StatPearls. Updated Jan 24, 2019; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/NBK441983.
        3. Bhatti Z, Bhatti R, Brangman S, Whiting K, Dhamoon A. Extensive cutaneous scalp angiosarcoma. Case Rep Dermatol Med. Jun, 2018; 1-3. https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6032971.
        4. Zager JS. Angiosarcoma of the scalp. Medscape. 2013; https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1296442-overview. Accessed 10/23/2014.