Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) Practice Exam

Which statement about angiosarcoma is true?

1. Patient with signs of angiosarcoma should be referred to a physician for immediate administration of antibiotics.

2. Angiosarcoma develops frequently in patients with longstanding, chronic lipedema.

3. Angiosarcoma is a highly-lethal malignancy that arises from the endothelial lining of the blood and lymph vessels.

4. All are true.

The correct answer is: Angiosarcoma is a highly-lethal malignancy that arises from the endothelial lining of the blood and lymph vessels.

Angiosarcoma is indeed a highly-lethal malignancy, specifically arising from the endothelial cells that line blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. This type of cancer can occur in various parts of the body, including the skin, and is characterized by aggressive growth and a tendency to metastasize, making it one of the more dangerous forms of sarcoma. The cells in angiosarcoma exhibit abnormal proliferation and can rapidly invade surrounding tissues, leading to significant health complications. This malignancy often presents with symptoms such as unusual lumps or lesions, particularly in areas exposed to radiation or those with prior lymphedema, but it is crucial to differentiate it from other conditions affecting the vascular system. While other statements may contain elements of truth, they are not entirely accurate in the context established. For example, the need for immediate antibiotics suggests an infectious process rather than a malignancy, which is not applicable for angiosarcoma. Additionally, while chronic lipedema can lead to lymphedema and other complications, it is not considered a primary cause or frequent precursor to angiosarcoma. Hence, statement C accurately encapsulates the key nature of angiosarcoma and reinforces the importance of recognizing its serious potential in clinical settings.