Diseases

Angiosarcoma

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Angiosarcoma is a cancer of the cells that line the walls of blood vessels or lymphatic vessels. The lining of the vessel walls is called the endothelium. Cancers from the walls of blood vessels are called hemangiosarcomas, and cancers from the walls of lymphatic vessels are called lymphangiosarcomas.

SYMPTOMS

Angiosarcoma can present in many different ways. It can look like a skin infection, a bruise or a lesion that does not heal. It may have a violet color, and one should be particularly concerned if such an area arises in a site of prior radiation therapy. It might also present as a soft lump that can be felt or seen.

CAUSES

The most widely known cause of angiosarcoma is lymphedema, the swelling of an area of the body due to the collection of fluid. Angiosarcoma can also occur due to radiation exposure or treatment, and angiosarcoma has been associated with carcinogens such as vinyl.