CASE REPORT article

Front. Oncol., 16 April 2025

Sec. Surgical Oncology

Volume 15 - 2025 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2025.1549722

The resection of extraosseous osteosarcoma was accompanied by the occurrence of pulmonary metastasis and distal metastasis at the primary site: a case report

Han Liu&#x;Han Liu1†Leilei Tian&#x;Leilei Tian2†Jianhua MuJianhua Mu1Xuanhong HeXuanhong He1Li ZhuangzhuangLi Zhuangzhuang1Taojun GongTaojun Gong1Jingjing WangJingjing Wang3Li MinLi Min1Minxun Lu*Minxun Lu1*Chongqi Tu*Chongqi Tu1*
  • 1Department of Orthopedics, Orthopaedic Research Institute, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
  • 2Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
  • 3Department of Endocrine, Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China

Background: Extraskeletal osteosarcoma (ESOS) is a rare and aggressive malignancy, comprising approximately 1% of all soft tissue sarcomas and 4.3% of all osteosarcomas. It predominantly affects individuals between the ages of 48 and 60, with a slightly higher incidence observed in males compared to females. The clinical diagnosis of ESOS poses a significant challenge due to its atypical presentation and overlap with other soft tissue neoplasms. Despite advances in diagnostic imaging and histopathological techniques, there is currently no consensus on the optimal treatment strategy.

Case presentation: We report a case of a 64-year-old Chinese woman with ESOS of the left knee for 7 years, who experienced multiple recurrences after surgical resection, accompanied by systemic multiple soft tissue metastases and lung metastases. Initially, the patient found a painless mass in the left knee, which was diagnosed as a benign soft tissue mass at a local hospital and surgically removed. However, two years after the surgery, a mass recurred around the left knee and was larger than before, prompting the patient to seek treatment at our department. The patient underwent standard surgical treatment in our department, and postoperative histopathology, genetic testing, and immunohistochemical examination all confirmed the diagnosis of ESOS. Over the course of 5 years, the patient experienced multiple recurrences, and we attempted surgical treatment combined with chemotherapy and targeted therapy. Ultimately, due to multiple tumor ruptures in the left lower limb, severe pain, and sleep disorders, the patient decided to undergo left hip disarticulation surgery.

Conclusion: The diagnosis and treatment of ESOS are challenging and require multimodal examination, including histological and immunohistochemical analysis. ESOS is rare, especially when it metastasizes to the distal soft tissues of the primary lesion site, which may portend a poorer clinical outcome compared to pure pulmonary metastasis. Despite current therapeutic interventions, this case still emphasizes its aggressiveness and poor prognosis.

Introduction

According to the World Health Organization, ESOS is a malignant tumor characterized by the production of osteoid or bone matrix by neoplastic cells, arising without connection to the skeletal system (1). EOS is a high-grade mesenchymal soft tissue malignancy, accounting for approximately 1% of all soft tissue sarcomas and 2–4% of all osteosarcomas (2). By definition, EOS produces osteoid or cartilage matrix in a sarcomatous pattern and originates in soft tissue without attachment to adjacent osseous structures, with a slight male predominance (35). It typically arises in the deep soft tissues of the lower extremities (especially the thigh and buttocks), but has also been reported in various visceral organs (3). Radiologically, EOS presents as soft-tissue opacities with calcifications or osteoid matrix. Tumor enhancement is seen on CT or MRI following intravenous contrast, depending on the degree of necrosis. Unlike conventional osteosarcoma, which peaks during the second decade of life, EOS frequently develops in patients over 30 years old, with a peak incidence in the sixth decade (5, 6). Radiation or trauma is associated with up to 10% of cases (6). Metastases commonly affect the lungs, bones, lymph nodes, brain, liver, and skin. EOS is associated with a worse prognosis than conventional osteosarcoma, due to its higher rates of local recurrence and metastasis, especially to the lungs (7). Surgical resection of the primary tumor is the preferred treatment (710). For metastatic disease, doxorubicin-based chemotherapy and radiotherapy are commonly employed, although recent larger studies have questioned the efficacy of these treatments. The reported 5-year survival rate ranges from 12% to 77% (11).

To the best of our knowledge, no cases of ESOS metastasizing to the distal limb of the primary site have been reported in the literature. In this report, we present a case of ESOS with repeated recurrences and metastasis to the distal limb of the primary site.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old woman presented with a seven-year history of extraskeletal osteosarcoma (ESOS) of the left knee (Figure 1). Seven years prior to admission, she noted a firm, asymptomatic mass on the lateral aspect of her left knee that did not affect her daily activities. There were no accompanying symptoms such as weakness, numbness, swelling, or discomfort in the left lower limb. At a local hospital, the mass was initially diagnosed as a benign soft tissue tumor, and the patient underwent surgical excision. However, the surgical wound exhibited poor healing, leading to localized scarring and recurrent fluid leakage. After multiple dressing changes, the incision eventually healed, and no additional treatments were administered. The patient was advised to attend regular follow-up appointments.

Figure 1
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 1. The timeline of the disease.

Five years ago, a similar lump reappeared at the same site, prompting a referral to our department. Imaging confirmed tumor recurrence (Figures 2A-E). The patient underwent an extensive surgical procedure on the left knee, including tumor resection biopsy, joint debridement, ligament reconstruction, pedicled fascial flap formation, skin grafting, and neurovascular exploration and decompression. Postoperative pathology revealed an osteosarcoma predominantly exhibiting osteoblastic features. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) testing showed no MDM2 amplification or USP6 translocation. Immunohistochemical results were as follows: SATB2 (partial +), SMA (+), CD34 (+), CDK4 (+/-), Desmin (-), S-100 (-), myogenin (-), and MDM2 (-), confirming the diagnosis of ESOS.

Figure 2
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 2. Radiological findings of the lesion. (A, B) X-ray shows nodular and flake-like high-density shadows under the left patella, approximately 5.4×4.5cm in size, with rough edges. (C) CT showed nodular high- density shadow in the subcutaneous tissue of the anterior inferior part of the left knee joint. (D) MRI showed a nodular short T2 signal shadow in the subcutaneous tissue of the anterior and inferior part of the left knee, with high signal intensity and low signal edge by fat suppression. (E) SPECT showed increased bone metabolism in the left knee joint region.

Six months later, masses similar to those previously observed recurred both proximal and distal to the left knee joint. Imaging again confirmed tumor recurrence (Figures 3A-E). A second comprehensive surgical intervention was performed, involving removal and biopsy of tumors around the left knee joint and the proximal fibula, detailed vascular and nerve examinations, fascial reconstruction, restoration of the tibialis anterior muscle attachment, collateral ligament reconstruction, and Vacuum-Assisted Closure (VAC) therapy. Postoperative pathology demonstrated osteoblastic osteosarcoma-like changes in both the knee and proximal fibula regions, with infiltration into muscle and subcutaneous soft tissue. Margins were clear of tumor cells. Following surgery, the patient pursued traditional Chinese medicine treatment.

Figure 3
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 3. Imaging results indicate that the tumor has recurred. (A, B) X-ray reveals several small, dense nodules near the left knee joint. (C, D) Radiographs of the left knee after surgery. (E) SPECT showed increased bone metabolism in the left knee joint region.

Three years ago, the patient noted multiple hard, painful masses emerging above and below the left knee joint, along the inner side of the upper and middle thigh, and near the lateral aspect of the upper thigh. She returned to our orthopedic department. A PET/CT scan revealed multiple nodules and masses in both lower limbs and in the left erector spinae muscles, with increased glucose metabolism. These lesions, located in subcutaneous or intermuscular tissues of the left hip, left thigh, around the left knee, the upper segment of the left lower leg, and the left erector spinae, were heterogeneous and showed signs of ossification. The largest mass, at the root of the left thigh, measured approximately 46 × 27 mm. Most lesions exhibited abnormal 18F-FDG uptake (SUVmax:7.44), strongly suggesting recurrent ESOS. Chemotherapy was recommended, and the patient underwent regular chemotherapy in our department.

Over the course of 11 cycles, three different chemotherapy regimens were administered. Between June 11, 2021, and October 25, 2021, the patient received five cycles of the AP regimen (liposomal doxorubicin 50 mg on day 1; cisplatin 60 mg on days 1-3, administered every three weeks). On November 24, 2021, and January 2, 2022, following a 20% dose reduction, two cycles of the IE regimen were administered (ifosfamide 2800 mg on days 1-5; etoposide 150 mg on days 1-5, every three weeks). From March 3, 2022, to May 24, 2022, four cycles of the GT regimen were given (gemcitabine 1400 mg on days 1 and 8; docetaxel 120 mg on day 8, every three weeks).

After the eighth cycle of chemotherapy, erythema and increased skin temperature developed over the left leg mass, followed by spontaneous ulceration and leakage of pale-yellow fluid or blood. These symptoms were managed with repeated dressing changes. Tumor progression was monitored periodically.

Two years ago, at a scheduled follow-up, X-ray imaging revealed multiple calcified nodules of varying sizes within the subcutaneous fat layer of the left buttock, hip, leg, around the left knee joint, in the posterior muscle compartments, and within the right thigh muscles (Figures 4A, B, G). On July 7, 2022, the patient underwent excisional biopsy of the left thigh tumor and peripatellar tumor, along with neurovascular exploration and decompression, local fascial flap formation, and VAC therapy.

Figure 4
www.frontiersin.org

Figure 4. Imaging results before and after surgery. (A, B) Preoperative X-ray of the left knee joint. (C, D) Postoperative X-ray of the left knee joint. (E, F) X-ray after further surgery. (G, H) Full-length standing X-rays of both legs taken before surgery and after the extended resection procedure.

Postoperative pathology revealed extensive irregular proliferation of trabecular bone-like tissue with significant degeneration and necrosis. A few atypical cells with deeply stained nuclei were noted, and in some areas, the tumor involved the superficial dermis and infiltrated sudoriferous glands. These findings were consistent with chemotherapy-treated osteosarcoma exhibiting osteoblastoma-like and sclerosing osteosarcoma-like changes. Based on these pathologic and imaging findings (Figures 4C, D), another procedure was performed on July 16, 2022, involving expansive debridement of the left thigh and peri-knee area, extended excisional biopsy of soft tissue tumors in these regions, harvesting a skin graft from the left thigh, skin grafting of the left lower limb, and VAC therapy (Figures 4E, F, H).

Postoperative pathology remained consistent with osteosarcoma changes after chemotherapy, featuring degenerative necrosis and irregular hyperplasia of trabecular bone. After wound healing, multiple new masses appeared in the left thigh and lower leg, as well as in the left inguinal region. The patient subsequently completed six additional cycles of chemotherapy.

In March 2024, the patient began taking targeted therapies (Apatinib Mesylate Tablets and Anlotinib). Despite this, multiple masses around the left knee ulcerated and drained fluid. Repeated dressing changes did not achieve complete wound healing, and the ulcerated areas gradually expanded. The patient’s pain intensified, necessitating long-term Tramadol, although its analgesic effect was limited, resulting in chronic insomnia. After extensive discussions, the patient elected to undergo amputation.

Physical examination and imaging confirmed the severity of her condition (Supplementary Figures 5A-C, G-J, K). In August 2024, the patient underwent left hip disarticulation with iliac fossa and inguinal lymph node dissection, as well as myofascial flap transposition plasty (Supplementary Figures 5D-F). Postoperative pathology revealed extensive proliferation of woven bone-like tissue with areas of high-grade osteosarcoma and osteoid matrix formation, consistent with recurrent osteosarcoma changes following chemotherapy.

Discussion

ESOS is a high-grade spindle cell tumor, typically larger than 5 cm. Jenson et al. reported that 18 out of 25 cases were intramuscular (12). Patients with ESOS often present with a slowly growing soft tissue mass, with symptom duration ranging from 4 to 6 months (12, 13). Approximately 50% of patients experience pain in the area of the lesion (13). A history of radiation exposure and trauma are associated with the development of ESOS, with prior radiation exposure noted in about 10% of cases. Laskin et al. reported that 13% of all sarcoma cases are radiation-related ESOS. Trauma history is present in 12–30% of cases and is essential for differential diagnosis, as it may lead to conditions like myositis ossificans, which can mimic ESOS (12, 13). Notably, osteosarcoma development from myositis has been documented in the literature.

Proper history-taking and physical examination are critical in managing tumor lesions; however, radiological evaluation is indispensable for diagnosis. Initial imaging studies, such as plain radiography, may show soft tissue tumors with coarse or punctate calcifications. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for local staging and preoperative planning, while computed tomography (CT) helps identify mineralization, necrosis, bone involvement, and metastases. Bone scintigraphy and positron emission tomography (PET) scans assist in staging the tumor (13, 14).

Malignant tumors are often nonspecific or asymptomatic in early stages, complicating diagnosis. Surgeons must consider alternative diagnoses beyond clinical judgment. Post-surgical analysis, including pathological, immunohistochemical, and genetic testing, is essential. In this case, testing revealed diffuse spindle cell proliferation with extensive osteochondral metaplasia, actively proliferating cells with large nucleoli, and nuclear division, suggesting osteosarcoma. The diagnostic overlap between ESOS and other diseases, both radiologically and pathologically, poses challenges. Accurate diagnosis is crucial, as ESOS requires more aggressive treatment strategies than other sarcomas (10, 15).

There are no definitive immunohistochemical (IHC) markers for ESOS, but IHC can aid diagnosis and exclude other possibilities. Osteoblastic ESOS may express SATB2, though this is not specific to ESOS, as other tumors producing bone can also express SATB2 (16, 17). In some cases, ESOS may weakly express SMA, S-100, and cytokeratins (18). Genetic findings in ESOS are nonspecific; approximately 10–20% of cases exhibit MDM2 and CDK4 amplification, typically seen in dedifferentiated liposarcoma (17, 19, 20). H3K27me3 deletion, more common in malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) with bone involvement, may occur in ESOS, and SOX10 expression should be checked to rule out MPNST (16, 17, 21).

In this case, SATB2 was positive, a common finding in ESOS (21). MPNST was excluded due to the absence of S-100 expression (17, 22). Other differential diagnoses, such as dedifferentiated liposarcoma and fibrosarcoma, were ruled out based on the lack of lipid components and fibroblast proliferation in hematoxylin–eosin staining. Given the typical histopathological features of osteosarcoma and the exclusion of other possibilities through IHC, a final diagnosis of ESOS was made.

ESOS is associated with poor morbidity and mortality due to the lack of standardized treatment guidelines. The optimal therapeutic approach remains unclear, as few cases have been reported. Some clinicians recommend treating ESOS like high-risk soft tissue sarcomas, while others prefer conventional osteosarcoma treatment protocols. Paludo et al. reported a 27% objective response rate to preoperative platinum-based chemotherapy in ESOS, though there was no significant survival advantage compared to non-platinum regimens (10). Older cohort studies reported a 5-year overall survival rate of 25% versus 66% with and without chemotherapy, respectively, suggesting chemotherapy might improve survival. However, Nystrom et al. found that the 5-year overall survival rate was only 11.7%, with chemotherapy slightly extending survival (16.4 months vs. 9.3 months, p = 0.16) (11, 23, 24).

Treatment strategies for ESOS depend on clinical judgment (14, 25). Most follow guidelines for soft tissue sarcomas (using anthracycline with or without ifosfamide) or primary bone sarcomas (with cisplatin, doxorubicin, ifosfamide, and methotrexate) (13). However, adjuvant multi-agent chemotherapy has not shown statistically significant improvements in disease-free survival and is not recommended for routine use (9, 13, 26, 27).

This case of a middle-aged woman with no metastasis at diagnosis, tumor recurrence 7 months after radical resection, and metastatic progression 24 months later, mirrors previous reports. Recurrence rates for ESOS range from 45% to 50% within 6 to 9 months post-surgery (11).

In exploring the mechanism of tumor metastasis, venous blood return plays a crucial role. Tumor cells spread from the primary tumor site to distant organs through the circulatory system, achieving metastasis. Hematogenous metastasis, as the main pathway for tumor cells to colonize distantly, involves tumor cells penetrating through vessel walls and using the bloodstream to reach distant organs. Additionally, the lymphatic system, as an important auxiliary part of the circulatory system, has its lymphangiogenic signaling pathways continuously activated, which not only inhibits the normalization of lymphatic function but also enhances tumor interstitial pressure, thereby affecting the penetration of drugs into tumor tissues and weakening their inhibitory effects on tumor cell proliferation and invasion (2831).

Special mention should be made of the Batson venous plexus, a venous network connecting multiple internal organs with the vertebral venous plexus, which provides a potential pathway for tumor cell metastasis. Although the presence of metastatic lesions in the patient’s lungs suggests a possible hematogenous metastasis mechanism, the absence of symmetrical metastatic lesions in the right lower limb reduces this possibility. However, the possibility of some unknown special metastatic mechanism leading to distal metastasis from the primary site cannot be ruled out (3236).

Multicentric osteosarcoma (MOS), as a rare subtype of osteosarcoma, accounts for only 1% to 5% of all osteosarcoma cases. This disease type is characterized by multiple non-metastatic osteosarcoma lesions in the patient’s systemic skeleton, with its uniqueness lying in the absence of visceral metastasis. Depending on the temporal sequence of lesion appearance, MOS can be further subdivided into synchronous and metachronous categories. The former refers to the occurrence of multiple independent primary lesions at the same time point, while the latter refers to the appearance of new non-metastatic tumor lesions after the primary lesion. In this study, during the follow-up period, the patient experienced the emergence of tumor lesions outside the primary site multiple times, even including rare distal lesions, suggesting that these distal lesions may not be due to metastasis, but rather a typical manifestation of MOS (3742).

In summary, the distal metastasis in this patient may be the result of the combined action of multiple metastatic mechanisms. It is these complex metastatic mechanisms that increase the difficulty of diagnosing and treating extramedullary osteosarcoma. Based on this, we share our experience in diagnosis and treatment, aiming to optimize the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for extramedullary osteosarcoma and improve the prognosis of patients.

Conclusion

This case report highlights the complexities of diagnosing extraskeletal osteosarcoma (ESOS), emphasizing the need for a comprehensive multimodal evaluation. Histological analysis plays a pivotal role in diagnosing ESOS by revealing high-grade pleomorphic spindle cells and osteoid matrix involvement. Given the rarity of ESOS and its overlapping features with other conditions, immunohistochemistry (IHC) is critical for establishing a definitive diagnosis. Specifically, SATB2 positivity strongly supports the diagnosis of ESOS, while S-100 negativity helps exclude other differential diagnoses. Treatment strategies often mirror those for high-risk soft tissue sarcomas or conventional osteosarcomas, although various chemotherapy regimens have shown limited impact on overall survival. In this case, the patient experienced recurrence and metastasis, highlighting the aggressive behavior and poor prognosis of ESOS. This report provides valuable insights into the diagnostic process and therapeutic approach for ESOS, contributing to the refinement of its precise diagnosis and management.

Data availability statement

The original contributions presented in the study are included in the article/Supplementary Material. Further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding author.

Ethics statement

The studies involving humans were approved by Ethics Review Committee of West China Hospital, Sichuan University. The studies were conducted in accordance with the local legislation and institutional requirements. The participants provided their written informed consent to participate in this study. Written informed consent was obtained from the individual(s) for the publication of any potentially identifiable images or data included in this article.

Author contributions

HL: Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. LT: Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. JM: Writing – review & editing. XH: Writing – review & editing. LZ: Writing – review & editing. TG: Writing – review & editing. JW: Writing – review & editing. LM: Writing – review & editing. ML: Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. CT: Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing.

Funding

The author(s) declare that financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article. This study is funded by Research of biomedical materials and 3D printing related products (20GZ30301) and National Natural Science Foundation of China (82402816).

Acknowledgments

We thank the Department of Pathology and the Department of Radiology of the West China Hospital for providing imaging services.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Generative AI statement

The author(s) declare that no Generative AI was used in the creation of this manuscript.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Supplementary material

The Supplementary Material for this article can be found online at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fonc.2025.1549722/full#supplementary-material

References

1. Sbaraglia M, Bellan E, Dei Tos AP. The 2020 WHO Classification of Soft Tissue Tumours: news and perspectives. Pathologica. (2021) 113:70–84. doi: 10.32074/1591-951X-213

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

2. Mardanpour K, Rahbar M. Subcutaneous extraskeletal osteosarcoma of foot: A case report. Int J Surg Case Rep. (2020) 75:403–7. doi: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2020.09.062

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

3. Salamanca J, Dhimes P, Pinedo F, Gómez de la Fuente E, Pérez Espejo G, Martínez-Tello FJ. Extraskeletal cutaneous chondroblastic osteosarcoma: a case report. J Cutan Pathol. (2008) 35:231–5. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0560.2007.00785.x

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

4. Tamura T, Suzuki K, Yasuda T, Nogami S, Watanabe K, Kanamori M, et al. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma arising in the subcutaneous tissue of the lower leg: A case report and literature review. Mol Clin Oncol. (2018) 9:287–92. doi: 10.3892/mco.2018.1662

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

5. Fiegen AP, Tjarks BJ, Jassim AD. Primary cutaneous osteosarcoma. S D Med. (2018) 71:164–6.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

6. Massi D, Franchi A, Leoncini G, Maio V, Dini M. Primary cutaneous osteosarcoma of the scalp: a case report and review of the literature. J Cutan Pathol. (2007) 34:61–4. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0560.2006.00562.x

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

7. Choi LE, Healey JH, Kuk D, Brennan MF. Analysis of outcomes in extraskeletal osteosarcoma: a review of fifty-three cases. J Bone Joint Surg Am. (2014) 96:e2. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.M.00339

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

8. Fan Z, Patel S, Lewis VO, Guadagnolo BA, Lin PP. Should high-grade extraosseous osteosarcoma be treated with multimodality therapy like other soft tissue sarcomas? Clin Orthop Relat Res. (2015) 473:3604–11. doi: 10.1007/s11999-015-4463-y

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

9. Longhi A, Bielack SS, Grimer R, Whelan J, Windhager R, Leithner A, et al. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma: A European Musculoskeletal Oncology Society study on 266 patients. Eur J Cancer. (2017) 74:9–16. doi: 10.1016/j.ejca.2016.12.016

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

10. Paludo J, Fritchie K, Haddox CL, Rose PS, Arndt CAS, Marks RS, et al. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma: outcomes and the role of chemotherapy. Am J Clin Oncol. (2018) 41:832–7. doi: 10.1097/COC.0000000000000397

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

11. Nystrom LM, Reimer NB, Reith JD, Scarborough MT, Gibbs CP. The treatment and outcomes of extraskeletal osteosarcoma: institutional experience and review of the literature. Iowa Orthop J. (2016) 36:98–103.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

12. Kattepur AK, Gulia A, Jones RL, Rastogi S. Extraskeletal osteosarcomas: current update. Future Oncol. (2021) 17:825–35. doi: 10.2217/fon-2020-0802

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

13. Mc Auley G, Jagannathan J, O’Regan K, Krajewski KM, Hornick JL, Butrynski J, et al. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma: spectrum of imaging findings. AJR Am J Roentgenol. (2012) 198:W31–37. doi: 10.2214/AJR.11.6927

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

14. Gulia A, Puri A, Jain S, Rekhi B, Juvekar S. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma with synchronous regional lymph node and soft tissue metastasis: a rare presentation of an uncommon tumour. Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol. (2013) 23 Suppl 2:S317–321. doi: 10.1007/s00590-012-1097-6

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

15. Thomas J, Jerome A, Marr G, De Boo DW, Gani J. Surgeons versus radiologists: do we care what they think? ANZ J Surg. (2024) 94:103–7. doi: 10.1111/ans.18761

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

16. Ichikawa J, Kawasaki T, Onohara K, Aoki K, Wako M, Ochiai S, et al. Diagnostic challenges in imaging and immunohistopathological profiles in extraskeletal osteosarcoma. World J Surg Oncol. (2024) 22:307. doi: 10.1186/s12957-024-03583-3

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

17. Pan X, Wang H-L, Lin S-M, Lin J-L, Ruan D-D, Zhang J-H, et al. A primary extraskeletal osteosarcoma of the spleen: rare case report. Front Oncol. (2022) 12:892943. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2022.892943

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

18. Yu L, Yang SJ. Primary osteosarcoma of the liver: case report and literature review. Pathol Oncol Res. (2020) 26:115–20. doi: 10.1007/s12253-018-0483-8

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

19. Makise N, Sekimizu M, Kubo T, Wakai S, Watanabe S-I, Kato T, et al. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma: MDM2 and H3K27me3 analysis of 19 cases suggest disease heterogeneity. Histopathology. (2018) 73:147–56. doi: 10.1111/his.13506

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

20. Yamashita K, Kohashi K, Yamada Y, Nishida Y, Urakawa H, Oda Y, et al. Primary extraskeletal osteosarcoma: a clinicopathological study of 18 cases focusing on MDM2 amplification status. Hum Pathol. (2017) 63:63–9. doi: 10.1016/j.humpath.2017.02.007

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

21. Conner JR, Hornick JL. SATB2 is a novel marker of osteoblastic differentiation in bone and soft tissue tumours. Histopathology. (2013) 63:36–49. doi: 10.1111/his.12138

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

22. Ibi K, Chiba S, Koyama N, Hashimoto K, Nejishima H. Spontaneous extraskeletal osteosarcoma in the neck skeletal muscle of a Crlj: CD1 (ICR) mouse. J Toxicol Pathol. (2021) 34:147–50. doi: 10.1293/tox.2020-0083

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

23. Goldstein-Jackson SY, Gosheger G, Delling G, Berdel WE, Exner GU, Jundt G, et al. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma has a favourable prognosis when treated like conventional osteosarcoma. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. (2005) 131:520–6. doi: 10.1007/s00432-005-0687-7

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

24. Torigoe T, Yazawa Y, Takagi T, Terakado A, Kurosawa H. Extraskeletal osteosarcoma in Japan: multiinstitutional study of 20 patients from the Japanese Musculoskeletal Oncology Group. J Orthop Sci. (2007) 12:424–9. doi: 10.1007/s00776-007-1164-8

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

25. Luczyńska E, Kasperkiewicz H, Domalik A, Cwierz A, Bobek-Billewicz B. Myositis ossificans mimicking sarcoma, the importance of diagnostic imaging - case report. Pol J Radiol. (2014) 79:228–32. doi: 10.12659/PJR.890209

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

26. Ahmad SA, Patel SR, Ballo MT, Baker TP, Yasko AW, Wang X, et al. Extraosseous osteosarcoma: response to treatment and long-term outcome. J Clin Oncol. (2002) 20:521–7. doi: 10.1200/JCO.2002.20.2.521

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

27. Cystic extraskeletal osteosarcoma: Three case reports and review of the literature. (Accessed October 13, 2024).

Google Scholar

28. Zhao W, Dai S, Yue L, Xu F, Gu J, Dai X, et al. Emerging mechanisms progress of colorectal cancer liver metastasis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). (2022) 13:1081585. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1081585

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

29. Nævdal G, Rofstad EK, Søreide K, Evje S. Fluid-sensitive migration mechanisms predict association between metastasis and high interstitial fluid pressure in pancreatic cancer. J Biomech. (2022) 145:111362. doi: 10.1016/j.jbiomech.2022.111362

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

30. Newland RC, Chan C, Chapuis PH, Keshava A, Rickard MJFX, Stewart P, et al. Relative effects of direct spread, lymph node metastasis and venous invasion in relation to blood borne distant metastasis present at the time of resection of colorectal cancer. Pathology. (2020) 52:649–56. doi: 10.1016/j.pathol.2020.06.007

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

31. Li S, Zhang H, Liu J, Shang G. Targeted therapy for osteosarcoma: a review. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol. (2023) 149:6785–97. doi: 10.1007/s00432-023-04614-4

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

32. Liu Y, He M, Tang H, Xie T, Lin Y, Liu S, et al. Single-cell and spatial transcriptomics reveal metastasis mechanism and microenvironment remodeling of lymph node in osteosarcoma. BMC Med. (2024) 22:200. doi: 10.1186/s12916-024-03319-w

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

33. Jin J, Cong J, Lei S, Zhang Q, Zhong X, Su Y, et al. Cracking the code: Deciphering the role of the tumor microenvironment in osteosarcoma metastasis. Int Immunopharmacol. (2023) 121:110422. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110422

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

34. Chang J, Zhao F, Sun X, Ma X, Zhi W, Yang Y. Intratibial osteosarcoma cell injection to generate orthotopic osteosarcoma and lung metastasis mouse models. J Vis Exp. (2021) 176:e63072. doi: 10.3791/63072

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

35. Geldof AA. Models for cancer skeletal metastasis: a reappraisal of Batson’s plexus. Anticancer Res. (1997) 17:1535–9.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

36. Yuh WT, Quets JP, Lee HJ, Simonson TM, Michalson LS, Nguyen PT, et al. Anatomic distribution of metastases in the vertebral body and modes of hematogenous spread. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). (1996) 21:2243–50. doi: 10.1097/00007632-199610010-00012

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

37. Corradi D, Wenger DE, Bertoni F, Bacchini P, Bosio S, Goldoni M, et al. Multicentric osteosarcoma: clinicopathologic and radiographic study of 56 cases. Am J Clin Pathol. (2011) 136:799–807. doi: 10.1309/AJCP0V0OATKCNAZP

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

38. Damron TA, Sim FH, Unni KK. Multicentric chondrosarcomas. Clin Orthop Relat Res. (1996) 328:211–9. doi: 10.1097/00003086-199607000-00033

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

39. Hameed S, Vijayan S, Naik M, Rao S. Multicentric osteosarcoma. Singapore Med J. (2012) 53:e214–217.

PubMed Abstract | Google Scholar

40. Park YK, Joo M. Multicentric telangiectatic osteosarcoma. Pathol Int. (2001) 51:200–3. doi: 10.1046/j.1440-1827.2001.01192.x

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

41. Parzefall B, De Decker S, Carvalho S, Terry R, Leach J, Smith KC, et al. Axial multicentric osteosarcoma in an English cocker spaniel. J Vet Intern Med. (2016) 30:1720–5. doi: 10.1111/jvim.14555

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

42. Nthumba PM. Osteosarcoma of the jaws: a review of literature and a case report on synchronous multicentric osteosarcomas. World J Surg Oncol. (2012) 10:240. doi: 10.1186/1477-7819-10-240

PubMed Abstract | Crossref Full Text | Google Scholar

Keywords: extraskeletal osteosarcoma, ESOs, rare, maligancy, metastasis

Citation: Liu H, Tian L, Mu J, He X, Zhuangzhuang L, Gong T, Wang J, Min L, Lu M and Tu C (2025) The resection of extraosseous osteosarcoma was accompanied by the occurrence of pulmonary metastasis and distal metastasis at the primary site: a case report. Front. Oncol. 15:1549722. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2025.1549722

Received: 21 December 2024; Accepted: 28 March 2025;
Published: 16 April 2025.

Edited by:

Chuanxi Zheng, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, China

Reviewed by:

Yucheng Fu, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China
Xiaodong Tang, Peking University People’s Hospital, China

Copyright © 2025 Liu, Tian, Mu, He, Zhuangzhuang, Gong, Wang, Min, Lu and Tu. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Chongqi Tu, dHVjcUBzY3UuZWR1LmNu; Minxun Lu, bWluaHVuQDEyNi5jb20=

These authors share first authorship

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Research integrity at Frontiers

94% of researchers rate our articles as excellent or good

Learn more about the work of our research integrity team to safeguard the quality of each article we publish.


Find out more