Predictors and outcomes of recurrent retroperitoneal liposarcoma: new insights into its recurrence patterns

Abstract

Abstract Background The clinical profiles of recurrent retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RLS) need to be explored. The recurrence patterns of RLS are controversial and ambiguous. Methods A total of 138 patients with recurrent RLS were finally recruited in the study. The analysis of overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was performed by Kaplan‒Meier analysis. The nomogram model was built to predict the survival status of patients. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed for the selection of independent prognostic factors that were correlated with OS or RFS. Results Among patients, the 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS rates were 70.7%, 35.9% and 30.9%, respectively. The 1-, 3- and 5-year RFS rates of the 55 patients who underwent R0 resection were 76.1%, 50.8% and 34.4%, respectively. The multivariate analysis revealed that resection method, tumor size, status of pathological differentiation, pathological subtypes and recurrence pattern were independent risk factors for OS or RFS. Patients with distant recurrence (DR) pattern usually had multifocal tumors (90.5% vs. 74.7%, P < 0.05); they were prone to experience changes of pathological differentiation (69.9% vs. 33.3%, P < 0.05) and had a better prognosis than those with local recurrence (LR) pattern. R0 resection and combined organ resection favored the survival of patients with DR pattern in some cases. Conclusions Patients with DR pattern had a better prognosis, and they may benefit more from aggressive combined resection than those with LR. Classifying the recurrence patterns of RLS provides guidance for individualized clinical management of recurrent RLS.