An epidemiological analysis and evaluation of 45 patients between 2006-2021: A descriptive study of rare tumor

Background: Rare tumors which are derived from the skin and soft tissue include a wide variety of types, but the knowledge and awareness of these tumors are limited. Besides, the number of specialists with specific training and experience in these tumors is very few. They are frequently associated with problems in the diagnosis and treatment. Purpose: In this study, we shared our experience and compared the outcome with the literature. Methods: Depending on clinicopathological evidence, 45 patients who were treated in our clinic between 2006 and 2021 were included in this descriptive study. Histopathological, etiological, and epidemiological results were analyzed. Tumors are classified as one of two types - either benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Malignant tumors are also divided into carcinoma and sarcoma. Radiologic imaging methods and incisional/excisional biopsy were used for the diagnosis and staging. Chemotherapy/radiotherapy was planned after surgical treatment according to the diagnosis. Results: Of 45 cases, 40 (81.25%) were malignant and 5 (18.75%) were benign. The ages of the patients ranged from 10 to 94 years, and the mean age was 54.05 +/- 20.1. The male/female ratio was 4.5/1. All patients were from the Aegean region of Turkey. The classification of the malignant tumors was carcinoma and sarcoma. The most common type of sarcomas was leiomyosarcoma and synovial sarcoma. Conclusion: When we consider the growing interest and knowledge in rare tumors, these case series are beneficial for epidemiological and surgical assessments.