Vascular synovial sarcoma masquerading as deep vein thrombosis: a diagnostic pitfall-a case report
Authors:
Ritwika Choudhury
, Bhumi Agarwal
, Ambarish Satwik
, Mansi Sharma
, Abhinav Dewan
, Sabeena K Choudhary
, Sunil Pasricha
, Himanshu Rohela
, Ullas Batra
Abstract
Background:
Intravascular synovial sarcoma is a rare disease with only 14 cases documented globally to date. To the best of our knowledge, we present the 15th case, highlighting the diagnostic challenge, rapidly progressive course of this malignancy and the need for greater clinical awareness.
Case Presentation:
A female patient in her early 20s presented with a painful swelling in the right inguinal region and right lower limb oedema, initially considered to be DVT. Imaging revealed a mass involving the right external iliac and common femoral veins. She underwent surgical excision of the mass, and histopathological evaluation confirmed intravascular biphasic synovial sarcoma, supported by molecular diagnostic testing. Patient received postoperative chemotherapy. However, there was local recurrence of the disease within 5 months of completing chemotherapy and within a year of surgical resection.
Conclusions:
This case emphasizes that not all cases presenting as DVT may be benign, especially in young patients without apparent risk factors. Underlying malignancies, including sarcomas, should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Advanced imaging techniques are critical for early detection and surgical planning. Early multidisciplinary involvement is essential for optimizing outcomes. Given the rarity and aggressive nature of this disease, further research is needed to guide standardized treatment strategies and improve survival.
Keywords: 15th case, intravascular synovial sarcoma, deep vein thrombosis, thromboembolic events, diagnostic challenge.
Pubmed Style
Ritwika Choudhury, Bhumi Agarwal, Ambarish Satwik, Mansi Sharma, Abhinav Dewan, Sabeena K Choudhary, Sunil Pasricha, Himanshu Rohela, Ullas Batra. Vascular synovial sarcoma masquerading as deep vein thrombosis: a diagnostic pitfall-a case report. EJMCR. 2026; 21 (May 2026): -. doi:10.24911/ejmcr.9-2729
Publication History
Received: March 09, 2026
Revised: April 25, 2026
Accepted: April 30, 2026
Published: May 21, 2026
Authors
Ritwika Choudhury
Department of Research (Medical Oncology Unit 5), Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre, New Delhi, India.
Bhumi Agarwal
Department of Medical Oncology, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre, New Delhi, India.
Ambarish Satwik
Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, India.
Mansi Sharma
Department of Medical Oncology, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre, New Delhi, India.
Abhinav Dewan
Department of Medical Oncology, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre, New Delhi, India.
Sabeena K Choudhary
Department of Medical Oncology, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre, New Delhi, India.
Sunil Pasricha
Department of Histopathology, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, New Delhi, India.
Himanshu Rohela
Department of Orthopaedic Oncology, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, New Delhi, India.
Ullas Batra
Department of Medical Oncology, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre, New Delhi, India.