Synovial sarcoma, a malignant soft tissue tumor often located in the extremities, is so named because it exhibits a microscopic resemblance to synovial tissue, the lining found within joints, though it is not thought to originate from this tissue.
Predominantly affecting adolescents and young adults, synovial sarcoma displays a higher occurrence in males. While its primary site is in the extremity, it can manifest in many locations throughout the body. The tumor has the potential to metastasize,
particularly involving regional lymph nodes. Distant tissue spread occurs in approximately half of all cases, often months to years post initial diagnosis, though it can also be present at the time of diagnosis.
Synovial sarcoma is classified as a rare tumor, categorized among soft tissue sarcomas — cancers originating in soft tissues such as fat, muscles, tendons, nerves, blood vessels, synovial tissue, and fibrous
tissue. Collectively, soft tissue sarcomas represent less than 1 percent of annual new cancer cases. In the United States, this accounts for roughly 900 instances among children and adolescents.
How We Treat Childhood Synovial Sarcoma
Children diagnosed with synovial sarcoma receive care at Dana-Farber/Boston Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders Center through our dedicated Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors Program. This comprehensive
pediatric oncology service seamlessly combines the exceptional knowledge of a leading cancer center with a renowned, world-class children's hospital. Within this specialized program, we provide a complete array of treatment options for bone and soft
tissue tumors, with our accomplished solid tumor treatment team working with you to decide the best approach for your child's needs.
Our esteemed pediatric oncologists not only have access to but also take the lead in pioneering cutting-edge clinical trials tailored for synovial sarcoma. Our surgeons are very experienced in the management of synovial sarcoma, and moreover, our radiation
oncologists are equipped with the latest advancements in radiation therapy techniques, enhancing the potential care avenues for children affected by synovial sarcoma.
Childhood Synovial Sarcoma Research and Clinical Trials
Researchers at Dana-Farber/Boston Children's are conducting numerous research studies that will help clinicians better understand and treat soft tissue sarcomas.
Dana-Farber/Boston Children's researchers are working on a multitude of studies to advance physicians’ understanding and treatment of soft tissue sarcomas.
The following treatments are also being studied:
Long-Term Outcomes for Children with Synovial Sarcoma
Over 70 percent of children with synovial sarcoma will survive five years after diagnosis if they have localized disease and receive combination therapy.
Your child's outcome will likely depend on many factors, including:
- The extent of the disease
- Size and location of the tumor
- Presence or absence of metastasis
- Tumor's response to therapy
- Age and overall health of the child
- Child's tolerance of specific medications, procedures, or therapies
- New developments in treatment
Unfortunately, about 40 percent of children treated for synovial sarcoma will experience a relapse or disease return. Our pediatric oncologists and surgeons have experience treating relapsed synovial sarcoma. We offer the highest standard of care for
children with relapsed synovial sarcoma, including additional surgery and chemotherapy and access to the latest treatments in clinical trials.
Childhood Synovial Sarcoma Treatment Team
The Dana-Farber/Boston Children's solid tumor treatment team includes childhood soft tissue sarcoma specialists who understand how to care for children with synovial sarcoma. We will work together to diagnose and treat your child with the latest, most
effective options possible.
See a complete list of the specialists in our Childhood Solid Tumor Center.