Radiation-induced sarcomas.

Radiation-induced sarcomas are rare, high-grade sarcomas that may arise within the radiation volume at a mean latency period of 3-55 years after radiation therapy, doses of which range from 45 to 60 Gy. Radiation-induced osteosarcomas, fibrosarcomas, and malignant fibrous histiocytomas are the most common. Extensive surgery with microscopically negative-margin resection, or amputation is recommended for improved survival. Adjuvant radiation therapy and chemotherapy have not been shown to improve survival rates significantly. The prognosis is poor.