Atypical Lipomatous Tumor
Controversy about terminology:
Well Differentiated Liposarcoma vs. Atypical Lipomatous Tumor
As used, these are equivalent terms
Arguments in favor of the term Well Differentiated Liposarcoma
- Historically these tumors were called well differentiated liposarcoma or lipoma-like liposarcoma
- In deep locations, recurrences may be uncontrollable
- These tumors may dedifferentiate and then metastasize
Arguments in favor of the term Atypical Lipomatous Tumor
- In the absence of dedifferentiation, such tumors do not metastasize
- In non-central locations, uncontrollable recurrence does not occur
- Use of the term "sarcoma" for non-central lesions may result in over-aggressive surgery
Some use ALT for deep-seated lesions and WDL for superficial lesions
- Lesions in both sites are histologically and genetically identical
- Differences in behavior are basically a reflection of resectability
