Synovial Sarcoma

Diagnosis

Synovial sarcoma is usually slow growing, so it may take years before a diagnosis is made. Sometimes it is initially mistaken for a joint problem, such as arthritis or bursitis.

Tests and procedures used to diagnose synovial sarcoma include:

• Imaging tests. MRI scans, X-rays, and CT scans can show the location, size, and spread of the sarcoma.

• Biopsy. A tissue sample is removed using a needle or sometimes surgery and sent to a lab to determine if cancer is present. Special tests on the tissue provide more details about the cancer cells, which help guide treatment planning.

Treatment

Treatment for synovial sarcoma depends on the tumor’s location, size, and whether it has spread.

• Surgery. The primary treatment involves removing the cancer along with some healthy tissue. In some cases, an entire muscle or muscle group may be removed. Amputation is now less common due to advances in surgical techniques.

• Radiation therapy. Radiation uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. It may be given before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to destroy remaining cancer cells.

• Chemotherapy. Strong medicines are used to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given before or after surgery and is also used when the cancer has spread.

• Targeted therapy. Medicines target specific chemicals in cancer cells, causing them to die or stop growing. Research is ongoing for advanced synovial sarcoma.

• Cell therapy. This treatment enhances the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack cancer cells. Afamitresgene autoleucel (Tecelra) is an option for advanced cases not responding to chemotherapy.

• Clinical trials. Studies of new treatments may provide access to the latest therapies. Side effects may be unknown, so discuss options with your healthcare team.