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 vulv ar malignancies. Because of their location and appearance, they may be easily misdiagnosed as a more benign process. CASE: A 65-year-old, bl ack woman had a vulvar lesion that appeared clinically to be a Barthol in's gland abscess. The lesion was a soft tissue mass, was excised in tote and was sent for pathologic study with a presumed diagnosis of li poma. The pathology report indicated pleomorphic liposarcoma. CONCLUSI ON: Only three prior cases of this disease have been reported. The cli nician should heighten his or her awareness in a patient with a vulvar mass. Early diagnosis is imperative for a favorable outcome.