Pleomorphic dermal sarcoma
Pleomorphic Dermal Sarcoma (PDS)
Definition & Differentiation from AFX
- PDS = the "more aggressive / deeper brother" of AFX with at least one aggressive histological feature.
- Definition criteria (one is sufficient): subcutaneous invasion + necrosis + LVI/PNI.
Clinical Presentation
- Clinically like AFX, but larger (often > 2 cm), more frequently ulcerated, slow course possible.
- Localization: same UV-exposed areas (scalp, cheeks, ears).
Histology
- In addition to AFX: subcutaneous involvement + necrosis + LVI/PNI — all 3 are absent in AFX.
- IHC identical to AFX (CD10+, p63−, S100−, Cytokeratin−).
Differential diagnoses
- Atypical Fibroxanthoma (AFX)
- Cutaneous angiosarcoma
- Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
- Melanoma
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Keratoacanthoma
Practise Pleomorphic dermal sarcoma in the app
Flashcards with spaced repetition, exam questions and spot-the-diagnosis on this topic – in DermaFuchs, free of charge.
In the DermaFuchs app: 2 flashcards · 1 clinical images
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Note: This page is intended for medical education and does not replace diagnosis or treatment decisions in individual cases. Treatment and follow-up content is available in the app.