The follow-up of adult soft-tissue sarcomas

Soft-tissue sarcomas are a rare and heterogeneous group of diseases with variable biology and pattern of metastases. These characteristics make it challenging to conduct large, randomized studies that could be used to generate evidence-based guidelines for unique subsets. Much of the data summarized here therefore represents standard practice based on the consensus of a group of experienced specialists and retrospective analysis of large databases. A surveillance guideline should be based on known prognostic factors, outcomes in individual subsets, and patterns of recurrence. It has to be practical and relatively cost-effective. The major goals of such an algorithm for soft-tissue sarcomas would be early identification of potentially curable recurrences, identification of therapy-related complications, and patient reassurance. © 2003 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.