Liposarcoma of the vulva: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Vulvar liposarcoma is rare. Three cases have been reported since 1966. Primary sarcomas of the vulva constitute 1-2% of all vulvar malignancies. Because of their location and appearance, they may be easily misdiagnosed as a more benign process.

CASE: A 65-year-old, black woman had a vulvar lesion that appeared clinically to be a Bartholin's gland abscess. The lesion was a soft tissue mass, was excised in toto and was sent for pathologic study with a presumed diagnosis of lipoma. The pathology report indicated pleomorphic liposarcoma.

CONCLUSION

Only three prior cases of this disease have been reported. The clinician should heighten his or her awareness in a patient with a vulvar mass. Early diagnosis is imperative for a favorable outcome.