Early detection of multiple bone and extra-skeletal metastases by body magnetic resonance imaging (BMRI) after treatment of Myxoid/Round-Cell Liposarcoma (MRCLS)

Abstract Introduction Myxoid Round cell containing myxoid liposarcomas (MRCLS) have a high propensity to metastasize to soft tissue and bone. Whole Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging (BMRI) has been reported as a critical modality to early detect disease spreading in asymptomatic patients. The purpose of this study is to describe metastatic patterns and outcomes in patients through annual BMRI surveillance after diagnosis of MRCLS of the extremities and trunk. Materiel and patients This retrospective study included patients with histology confirmed MRCLS. Initial BMRI were done within 6 months following the first line treatment then once a year. Results Forty-five out of 51 consecutive MRCLS patients were included. At the last follow-up 10 patients (22.2%) had an extra-pulmonary soft-tissue or/and bone metastasis detected in a median delay of 22.7 ± 16 months [0−49] from the diagnosis of the MRCLS. Nine patients were asymptomatic. Finally, 5-years metastatic free survival was 72 ± 8%. All metastatic patients had multiple lesion within the year following the first lesion diagnosis. Conclusion Systematic BMRI in MRCLS patients following treatment frequently identify extra-pulmonary metastasis in asymptomatic patients within the first 5 years of follow-up. Despite a long survival can be expected after diagnosis, extra-skeletal metastasis was a signal of disseminated disease.