Synovial sarcoma of the brachial plexus: case report.

Abstract

Synovial sarcoma (SS) is a malignant soft-tissue tumor that rarely involves brachial plexus. The authors report a case of brachial plexus SS and review the relevant literature. A 53-year-old woman presented with gradually enlarging right subclavicular mass over 5 years associated with sharp aching pain radiating down toward the radial 3 fingers. On examination, she had a corresponding firm mass in the supraclavicular region with a positive Tinel sign. There was no objective neurological deficit. She underwent partial excision of this mass without any further adjuvant radiation or chemotherapy. Pathology was consistent with SS. Lack of any recurrence in this case 6 years after incomplete excision with no adjuvant therapy suggests slow clinical course in some of these sarcomas.