Research Radartracking 1,189 published studies · 293 human · 6 safety signals · 42 clinical trials · 44 cancer pages · updated Jul 2026Open the Research Map →

Peritoneal Sarcoma

A plain-English summary of the published research on Peritoneal Sarcoma, reviewed and approved by our editors — not a hand-curated clinical overview.

Research summary · reviewed
Educational only: This page is not medical advice. Coordinate decisions with your oncology team.

Reviewed Jun 2026 · OncoForge editorial · How we review →

AI extractedhuman reviewedsources checkedretractions suppressed· last updated Jun 2026

Evidence at a glanceHuman · observationalMixed results⚠ Studies disagree
11 published studies that name Peritoneal Sarcoma3 human studies approved & graded (trial, observational, or meta-analysis)1 human clinical studies in the Peritoneal Sarcoma corpus17 source documents in the Peritoneal Sarcoma corpus

last checked June 20, 2026

Why this grade?

Human · observationalHuman observational evidence only — no trials.

Computed deterministically from the studies’ types and reported outcomes — not written by AI, and not a claim that anything works.

What the guidelines say

NCI PDQESMONCCNASCO

We link the authoritative guidelines rather than reproduce them. Below, the treatments on this page are split into standard care, guideline or regulatory options, supportive care, and studied but not standard so established care is not mixed with experimental or supportive items.

Studied, not standard - investigational
  • en bloc multivisceral resection
  • chemotherapy
  • radiotherapy
  • HIPEC (heated cisplatin 100-150 mg/m2 after surgical cytoreduction)
  • Methotrexate

Read the guidelines

Cancer-specific deep links aren’t curated yet — these search the authoritative sources for Peritoneal Sarcoma.

Treatment map: Peritoneal Sarcoma

Open as a full page →

Standard care plus every compound studied in the literature (each cited) and graded by evidence, organized by clinical readiness. A category, not a verdict that anything works — confirm anything here with your oncology team.

5
Interventions
0
Standard of care
0
Tested in people
1
Lab / animal
4
Named in lit.
4
Classes
Standard of care (0) Guideline option (0) Tested in people (0) Lab / animal only (1) Named in the literature (4)
Clinical evidence
Preclinical evidence
Standard of care
Guideline option
Tested in people
Lab / animal only
Named in the literature
Surgery & procedures
2
Radiotherapy
1
Chemotherapy
1
Other
1

Columns group into clinical evidence (used in, or tested on, people) and preclinical evidence (lab/animal, or only named in the literature). Cell = number of interventions; a dashed cell means none recorded there.

Investigational & adjunct compounds — detail (5)
Named in the literature
en bloc multivisceral resectionchemotherapyradiotherapyHIPEC (heated cisplatin 100-150 mg/m2 after surgical cytoreduction)
Lab / animal only

"Tested in people" rows show the highest trial phase found in that compound's cited human studies (Phase I–IV; "phase not reported" = a human study with no phase tag). "Studied" = named in the cited literature for this cancer. "FDA ✓" = FDA-approved for this cancer; "off-label" = an FDA-approved drug used outside its approved indications (per openFDA). Not a claim that anything works.

Reported figures

Get cited updates on Peritoneal Sarcoma
A monthly email when the research changes — $10/mo. Manage follows
Follow Peritoneal Sarcoma

Snapshot

The essentials in ~60 seconds — every line is drawn from the cited sources below.

What it is
Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a rare peritoneal sarcoma that predominantly affects White/Hispanic male adolescents and young adults. [1]
Survival
Prognosis is generally unfavorable; reported five‑year survival is between 4% and 18%. [1]
Standard treatment
Reported management options include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. [1]
Key test
The most specific diagnostic marker is the EWSR1‑WT1 fusion from the t(11;22)(p13;q12) translocation. [1]
Biggest challenge
The main clinical problem is the generally unfavorable prognosis despite multimodal treatment and the lack of an established effective therapeutic approach. [1]

Ask about Peritoneal Sarcoma

Answers come only from the cited sources on this page — with the supporting evidence shown. If the sources here don't cover your question, it will say so. Educational information, not medical advice.

Key numbers & factors

Risk factors

  • increases riskWhite/Hispanic male adolescents and young adults [1]

Biomarkers

  • EWSR1‑WT1 fusion (t11;22)(p13;q12) · Most specific diagnostic marker for DSRCT [1]
  • DICER1 RNase IIIb hotspot mutations (E1705, E1813, D1709, D1810, G1809) · Identifies DICER1-associated tumors and indicates miRNA-processing dysfunction [2]

8 sections — tap any heading to expand its cited detail. Key points are above.

Overview1 point
  • Sources describe DSRCT as a rare peritoneal sarcoma with a poor prognosis. [1]
EpidemiologyPeritoneal sarcoma encompasses subtypes with different epidemiology: desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) most often affects White/Hispanic male adolescents and young adults, and retroperitoneal sarcoma is an uncommon site, accounting for a minority of soft tissue sarcomas.2 points
  • DSRCT predominantly affects White/Hispanic male adolescents and young adults. [1]
  • Retroperitoneal sarcoma is relatively uncommon, constituting only 10–15 percent of all soft tissue sarcomas. [3]
Key biomarkersMolecular findings reported in peritoneal sarcomas include the EWSR1‑WT1 fusion from t(11;22)(p13;q12) as a specific diagnostic marker for desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT), and somatic hotspot mutations in the RNase IIIb domain of DICER1 (E1705, E1813, D1709, D1810, or G1809) identified in DICER1‑associated tumors, with at least one reported somatic DICER1‑associated metastatic peritoneal sarcoma.3 points
  • The most specific diagnostic marker for DSRCT is the chromosomal translocation (t11;22)(p13;q12) that produces the EWSR1‑WT1 fusion oncogene. [1]
  • Characteristic 'hotspot' somatic mutations in the RNase IIIb domain of DICER1 (E1705, E1813, D1709, D1810, or G1809) have been identified in DICER1-associated tumors. [2]
  • A somatic DICER1-associated metastatic peritoneal sarcoma has been reported in the literature. [2]
Biology & pathwaysDICER1 encodes an RNase III family endoribonuclease required for processing microRNA (miRNA). Mutations in DICER1 can dysregulate miRNA and thereby cause activation of oncogenes.2 points
  • The DICER1 gene encodes an endoribonuclease in the RNase III family that is required for processing microRNA (miRNA). [2]
  • Dysregulation of miRNA by DICER1 mutations can cause activation of oncogenes. [2]
Standard managementReported treatment options for desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT), a peritoneal sarcoma subtype, include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.1 point
  • Reported treatment options for desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. [1]
Treatments & compounds studiedFour therapeutics are reported across the procedure_device, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy modalities.4 treatments

Chemotherapy

Show 1 lab & early-research entry
  • chemotherapy: Systemic chemotherapy has been used in DSRCT and at least one reported case showed a partial response to chemotherapy. [1]
    3-year survival rate 71%
    Source quote
    • Among the various therapeutic approaches, such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and intraperitoneal hyperthermic perfusion (HIPEC), the latter shows promise in treating DSRCT, achieving a mean survival rate of up to 71% at three years.

Radiotherapy

  • radiotherapy: Radiotherapy is reported among available treatment options for DSRCT. [1]
    3-year survival rate 71%
    Source quote
    • Among the various therapeutic approaches, such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and intraperitoneal hyperthermic perfusion (HIPEC), the latter shows promise in treating DSRCT, achieving a mean survival rate of up to 71% at three years.

Procedures & devices

  • en bloc multivisceral resection: En bloc multivisceral resection has been described as the current gold-standard surgical approach for retroperitoneal sarcoma. [4]
  • HIPEC (heated cisplatin 100-150 mg/m2 after surgical cytoreduction): In DSRCT, intraperitoneal hyperthermic perfusion (HIPEC) has been described as heated cisplatin at a dose of 100-150 mg/m2 after surgical cytoreduction. [1]
    3-year survival rate 71%
    Source quote
    • Among the various therapeutic approaches, such as surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and intraperitoneal hyperthermic perfusion (HIPEC), the latter shows promise in treating DSRCT, achieving a mean survival rate of up to 71% at three years.
PrognosisDesmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) has a generally unfavorable prognosis. Reported five‑year survival rates are low, ranging from 4% to 18% despite aggressive therapeutic management.2 points
  • The prognosis for DSRCT is generally unfavorable despite available treatments. [1]
  • Reported five‑year survival rates for DSRCT have been reported between 4% and 18% despite aggressive therapeutic management. [1]
What we don't know yet1 point
  • Despite multimodal treatment, further studies and research are needed to formulate an appropriate therapeutic approach for DSRCT. [1]

Common questions

How common is Peritoneal Sarcoma?

Peritoneal sarcoma encompasses subtypes with different epidemiology: desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) most often affects White/Hispanic male adolescents and young adults, and retroperitoneal sarcoma is an uncommon site, accounting for a minority of soft tissue sarcomas.

Which biomarkers are important in Peritoneal Sarcoma?

Molecular findings reported in peritoneal sarcomas include the EWSR1‑WT1 fusion from t(11;22)(p13;q12) as a specific diagnostic marker for desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT), and somatic hotspot mutations in the RNase IIIb domain of DICER1 (E1705, E1813, D1709, D1810, or G1809) identified in DICER1‑associated tumors, with at least one reported somatic DICER1‑associated metastatic peritoneal sarcoma.

What is the biology of Peritoneal Sarcoma?

DICER1 encodes an RNase III family endoribonuclease required for processing microRNA (miRNA). Mutations in DICER1 can dysregulate miRNA and thereby cause activation of oncogenes.

How is Peritoneal Sarcoma treated?

Reported treatment options for desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT), a peritoneal sarcoma subtype, include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

What treatments are studied for Peritoneal Sarcoma?

Four therapeutics are reported across the procedure_device, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy modalities.

What is the prognosis for Peritoneal Sarcoma?

Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) has a generally unfavorable prognosis. Reported five‑year survival rates are low, ranging from 4% to 18% despite aggressive therapeutic management.

Sources

Every statement above is drawn from these reviewed sources. This page reports what they describe. Sources last checked June 20, 2026.

  1. Case reportImaging Diagnosis of Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor: A Report of Two Cases · 2024
  2. Case reportExpanding the spectrum of dicer1-associated sarcomas · 2020
  3. Case reportRetroperitoneal liposarcoma in older person - a rare case report · 2020
  4. Case reportLarge retroperitoneal sarcoma invading the inferior vena cava successfully resected. Technical notes of two cases · 2023

What supports this page

The kinds of sources behind this page, strongest at the top. Faint rungs show what is not here yet.

Guideline
1
Meta-analysis
0
Systematic review
1
Randomized trial
0
Clinical trial
1
Observational
0
Case report
5
Review
4
Preclinical
0
Other
5

Living document — last change June 20, 2026: Cancer page updated. 2 recent updates logged.

Pooled evidence across studies

PubMed
  • Largest specimen weights: 3183 g (2933–4780 across studies) · (regimen unspecified)
    3 studies · 67% agree · moderate · 1 flagged37297823

Medicines & supplements studied for Peritoneal Sarcoma

PubMedFDAClinicalTrials.gov

Every drug, supplement, and other agent the published studies cover for Peritoneal Sarcoma, ranked by how strong the evidence is — what studies report, not a recommendation. Tap any to see its full profile.

Medicines · 1

MethotrexateAnimal onlyReported positive1 animal

Animal studies only — no human data.

Largest credible effect: mean terminal half-life of AMF 10.9 PMID 16052545 · median-survival values 7–17 across 6 studies

Most authoritative study: Application of anti-methotrexate Fab fragments for the optimization of intraperitoneal methotrexate therapy in a murine model of peritoneal cancer

No human studies yet · Based on a single study.
OtherFDA off-label1 studyFull profile →

What recent studies report in Peritoneal Sarcoma

These are reviewed studies whose abstracts concern Peritoneal Sarcoma. Each describes only what that study reported. This is not a claim by OncoForge that any compound helps or harms Peritoneal Sarcoma. Most are early lab, animal, or small human studies, and findings often conflict.

11 studies3 human3 animal⚠ Conflicting evidenceMechanism (5)Safety (1)

Tracking 11 published studies of Peritoneal Sarcoma: 3 in humans, 3 in animals, 5 reviews/other.

Reported direction across studies: 8 positive, 1 negative, 2 inconclusive.

Findings conflict — both supportive and negative/mixed results exist (see below). Human evidence is limited.

These counts summarize what the studies reported; they are not a measure of whether anything works for Peritoneal Sarcoma.

Compounds with studies mentioning Peritoneal Sarcoma

Methotrexate (1)
Case reportReported negativeLimited evidenceTier 3 · early humann = 1

Primary High-Grade Intraperitoneal Sarcoma Mimicking a Germ Cell Tumor in an 8-Year-Old Girl in Somaliland: A Diagnostic Challenge

International medical case reports journal · Jul 2026 · case report

intra-abdominal sarcomaprimary high-grade intraperitoneal sarcomapediatric abdominal tumor

This case report describes an 8-year-old girl in Somaliland who presented with a large abdominopelvic mass initially suspected to be a germ cell tumor. Empiric germ cell chemotherapy produced no response; surgery and histopathology revealed a high-grade intra-peritoneal sarcoma (desmin+, myogenin-), and the patient died about three months after treatment. The report emphasizes the diagnostic challenges when biopsy and molecular testing are limited.

Reported effects: cycles without response 2, n=1 · time to death 3 mo, n=1

Key findings
  • Imaging suggested a germ cell tumor, and empiric germ cell tumor-directed chemotherapy was started.
  • No clinical or radiological response was observed after two cycles of empiric chemotherapy.
  • Exploratory laparotomy and cytoreductive surgery identified a large intra-peritoneal mass with omental and nodal involvement.
  • Histopathology showed a high-grade malignant neoplasm with pleomorphic round-to-spindle cells and rhabdoid features; immunohistochemistry was diffusely desmin positive and myogenin negative; INI1 testing was unavailable.
  • Despite postoperative chemotherapy the disease progressed and the patient died approximately 3 months after treatment.
Limitations: Single-patient case report (n=1).; Empiric therapy was given without pre-treatment histopathological confirmation.; Incomplete diagnostic work-up: INI1 testing and other molecular diagnostics were unavailable.; Short clinical follow-up (patient died ~3 months after treatment).; Findings from one case in a resource-limited setting may not generalize..

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jul 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed · Full text

ReviewMechanismInconclusiveLimited evidenceTier 3 · early human

DICER1 -Associated Gynecologic Neoplasms: An Update and Review

Advances in anatomic pathology · Jan 2026 · narrative review

gynecologic neoplasmsembryonal rhabdomyosarcomaSertoli-Leydig cell tumorpleuropulmonary blastoma-like peritoneal sarcomaadenosarcomagynandroblastomajuvenile granulosa cell tumorSertoli cell tumorDICER1-related Wilms-like uterine tumor

This narrative review summarizes how germline and somatic DICER1 mutations are associated with a range of benign and malignant gynecologic neoplasms and describes their shared morphologic features. The authors note that a germline loss-of-function DICER1 mutation is often followed by a somatic hotspot (second-hit) mutation in tumors, and they recommend that recognition of characteristic morphology should prompt genetic testing and surveillance for patients and families. The review proposes the term "DICER1-related primitive polyphenotypic neoplasm" to encompass the diverse histologic features of these tumors.

Key findings
  • DICER1 is crucial for microRNA biogenesis and maturation.
  • Germline DICER1 mutations are associated with increased risk of a wide range of benign and malignant neoplasms; the same tumors can also arise sporadically via somatic DICER1 mutations.
  • In syndromic patients, a germline loss-of-function DICER1 mutation is usually followed by a somatic hotspot mutation in the tumor as a second hit.
  • DICER1-associated gynecologic neoplasms most commonly include embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma and moderately to poorly differentiated Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, with several less frequent tumor types also described.
  • DICER1-mutant gynecologic neoplasms frequently share characteristic morphology (primitive mesenchyme, fetal-type epithelium/cartilage, rhabdomyoblastic and/or neuroectodermal differentiation, osteoid formation, and anaplasia).
  • Recognition of these distinctive morphologic features should prompt consideration of DICER1-associated neoplasm and genetic testing to facilitate surveillance for patients and families.
  • The morphologic spectrum of most DICER1-mutant gynecologic neoplasms appears wider than that of any known type of sarcoma.
  • The authors propose the term "DICER1-related primitive polyphenotypic neoplasm" to better capture the diverse histologic features.
Limitations: Narrative review without description of systematic search or methods — potential selection bias in included reports.; No primary data or quantitative synthesis (no new experimental or cohort data presented).; Extent of evidence, frequency estimates, and outcomes are not quantified in the abstract..

Summarizes the association between DICER1 mutations and a spectrum of gynecologic tumors and highlights implications for pathologic recognition and genetic testing.

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed

Human · observationalSafetyReported positiveLimited evidenceTier 3 · early humann = 1120

The Future of Minimal-Access Myoma Surgery with In-Bag Contained Morcellation

Journal of clinical medicine · May 2023 · retrospective single-center analysis

leiomyosarcomasarcomaperitoneal sarcoma

This retrospective single-center study reviewed 1120 laparoscopic procedures using electromechanical in-bag morcellation to remove large benign uterine specimens and evaluated practicability and safety. Most specimens were large (78.7% >250 g; 9% >1000 g); bag manipulation was reported as practicable with only two detected bag punctures and no peritoneal debris on cytology. Histology found one retroperitoneal angioleiomyomatosis and three unexpected malignancies (two leiomyosarcomas, one sarcoma); one patient developed abdominal metastases in year three and was lost to follow-up. The authors conclude in-bag morcellation was feasible for large tumors and rarely associated with detectable bag perforation or visible tissue spread in this series.

Reported effects: myomectomies 804 · supracervical hysterectomies 242 · +13 more

Key findings
  • A total of 804 myomectomies, 242 supracervical hysterectomies, 73 total hysterectomies, and 1 retroperitoneal tumor extirpation were performed.
  • A total of 78.7% of specimens weighed more than 250 g (n = 881) and 9% more than 1000 g.
  • The largest specimens, weighing 2933 g, 3183 g, and 4780 g, required two bags for complete morcellation.
  • Neither difficulties nor complications related to bag manipulation were recorded.
  • Small bag puncture was detected in two cases, but peritoneal washing cytology was free of debris.
  • One retroperitoneal angioleiomyomatosis and three malignancies were detected in histology (leiomyosarcoma = 2; sarcoma = 1); those patients underwent radical surgery.
  • All patients were disease-free at 3 years follow-up, but one patient presented multiple abdominal metastases of the leiomyosarcoma in the third year and was lost from follow-up.
Limitations: Retrospective, single-center design with no control group or randomization.; Observational safety/feasibility data without a comparator arm (e.g., uncontained morcellation or open surgery).; Low number of unexpected malignancies (n = 3) limits conclusions about oncologic safety.; Peritoneal washing cytology may not detect all disseminated cells; no molecular assays reported to confirm absence of dissemination.; Follow-up described to 3 years but longer-term oncologic outcomes remain uncertain.; Potential selection and reporting biases inherent to retrospective series..

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed · Full text

Case reportReported positiveLimited evidenceTier 3 · early humann = 2

Large retroperitoneal sarcoma invading the inferior vena cava successfully resected. Technical notes of two cases

Annali italiani di chirurgia · Jan 2023 · Case report (two cases)

retroperitoneal sarcomaleiomyosarcomasoft tissue neoplasm

This report describes two women with large right-sided retroperitoneal leiomyosarcomas that involved the inferior vena cava who underwent radical en bloc multivisceral resection including part of the IVC wall. The IVC wall defect was closed by direct suture, which reduced the lumen calibre but produced no hemodynamic problems or endoluminal thrombi; histologic margins were negative and postoperative courses were uneventful with good caval flow.

Reported effect: case_count 2, n=2

Key findings
  • Both patients underwent radical en bloc resection of the tumor with surrounding tissues and part of the right wall of the subrenal inferior vena cava.
  • The IVC wall defect was repaired with direct suture repair, resulting in reduced calibre but no hemodynamic sequelae or endoluminal thrombi.
  • All resection margins, including the IVC wall, were histologically negative for tumor invasion.
  • Postoperative courses were unremarkable and caval blood flow was reported as optimal.
Limitations: Very small sample size (two case reports).; No control or comparison group.; No long-term follow-up or oncologic outcome data (recurrence, survival) reported.; Findings are surgical observations and may not generalize to other patients or centers.; No quantitative hemodynamic measurements or imaging data provided in the abstract..

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed

ReviewMechanismReported positiveLimited evidenceTier 3 · early human

DICER1 tumor predisposition syndrome: an evolving story initiated with the pleuropulmonary blastoma

Modern pathology : an official journal of the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, Inc · Jan 2022 · narrative review

pleuropulmonary blastomalung neoplasmsSertoli-Leydig cell tumorgynandroblastomaembryonal rhabdomyosarcomamultinodular goiterdifferentiated thyroid carcinomapoorly differentiated thyroid carcinomacervical-thyroid teratomacystic nephromaanaplastic sarcoma of kidneynasal chondromesenchymal hamartomaintestinal juvenile-like hamartomatous polypciliary body medulloepitheliomapituitary blastomapineoblastomaprimary central nervous system sarcomaembryonal tumor with multilayered rosettes-like cerebellar tumorPPB-like peritoneal sarcomapresacral malignant teratoid neoplasm

This narrative review summarizes DICER1 tumor predisposition syndrome, an autosomal dominant disorder caused by heterozygous germline DICER1 mutations, and describes pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB) as the most common associated tumor in early childhood. The review lists a broad spectrum of extrapulmonary neoplasms linked to DICER1 (each typically showing a second somatic DICER1 mutation), highlights overlapping histopathologic features and cystic-to-solid progression, and recommends that such findings should prompt testing for DICER1 mutations.

Reported effect: age_range_of_progression

Key findings
  • DICER1 syndrome is an autosomal dominant tumor predisposition disorder caused by a heterozygous germline DICER1 mutation.
  • Pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB) is the most common tumor seen clinically in this syndrome and is classified into types (IR, I, II, III) with progression from cystic (type I) to solid (type III).
  • A wide spectrum of extrapulmonary neoplasms (e.g., Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, thyroid carcinomas, cystic nephroma, pineoblastoma, pituitary blastoma, others) have been associated with germline DICER1 mutations.
  • Each of these neoplasms is characterized by a second somatic mutation in DICER1.
  • Many of the associated tumors share overlapping histopathologic features, particularly primitive mesenchyme with rhabdomyoblastic and chondroid differentiation, and several show an initial cystic stage with progression to higher-grade neoplasms.
  • Pathologic recognition of these features should alert pathologists and clinicians to consider DICER1-associated neoplasm testing.
Limitations: Narrative review: abstract does not report new primary patient-level data.; Abstract provides descriptive summary without systematic review methods or quantitative synthesis.; No sample sizes, incidence rates, or outcome metrics provided in the abstract.; Primarily descriptive/pathologic correlations; clinical management implications not detailed in abstract..

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed · Full text

Human · observationalMechanismReported positiveLimited evidenceTier 3 · early humann = 7

Pleuropulmonary blastoma-like peritoneal sarcoma: a newly described malignancy associated with biallelic DICER1 pathogenic variation

Modern pathology : an official journal of the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, Inc · Oct 2020 · pathology review / case series

pleuropulmonary blastoma-like peritoneal sarcomaperitoneal sarcoma

The authors report a pathology review identifying seven pediatric cases of a primitive peritoneal sarcoma resembling pleuropulmonary blastoma. These tumors arose mainly from the fallopian tube or other peritoneal surfaces and exhibited histologic patterns similar to PPB; all seven cases had pathogenic DICER1 variation in germline and/or tumor DNA. The report proposes that abdominal or pelvic tumors with heterogeneous rhabdomyosarcomatous and/or cartilaginous differentiation should prompt germline and tumor DICER1 testing.

Reported effects: total_cases 7, n=7 · median_age 13, n=7 · +7 more

Key findings
  • A total of seven cases were identified through pathology review in children presenting at a median age of 13 years (range 3-14 years).
  • Primary sites of origin included the fallopian tube (four cases), serosal surface of the colon (one case), and pelvic sidewall (two cases).
  • One case had pathologic features of type I PPB, another type Ir (regressed) PPB, and the remaining five had features of type II or III PPB with a mixed primitive sarcomatous pattern with or without cystic elements.
  • All had a pathogenic DICER1 variation identified in germline and/or tumor DNA.
  • Authors conclude that tumors arising from the fallopian tube or elsewhere in the abdomen/pelvis, especially those with heterogeneous rhabdomyosarcomatous and/or cartilaginous differentiation, should prompt consideration of germline and tumor DICER1 testing.
Limitations: Small sample size (seven cases).; Retrospective pathology review / case series design without a control group.; No clinical outcome, treatment, or long-term follow-up data reported in the abstract.; Potential selection and referral bias from cases identified via pathology review..

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed · Full text

Human · observationalMechanismReported positiveLimited evidenceTier 3 · early humann = 3

Expanding the spectrum of dicer1-associated sarcomas

Modern pathology : an official journal of the United States and Canadian Academy of Pathology, Inc · Jan 2020 · case series (3 cases) with comprehensive literature review

ovarian sarcomaperitoneal sarcomaintracranial sarcomapleuropulmonary blastomagenitourinary embryonal rhabdomyosarcomaanaplastic sarcoma of the kidney

The authors report three pediatric sarcoma cases (ovarian with germline DICER1 mutation; metastatic peritoneal and primary intracranial with somatic DICER1 mutations) and performed a literature review of DICER1-associated sarcomas. The review (including 83 cases) shows a consistent heterogeneous histologic pattern similar to pleuropulmonary blastoma across sites. They recommend that this distinctive histology should prompt review of family history and DICER1 mutation testing to enable genetic counseling and imaging surveillance.

Reported effects: cases_reported 3, n=3 · literature_review_count 83, n=83

Key findings
  • Reported three pediatric sarcomas associated with DICER1 mutations: a germline DICER1-associated ovarian sarcoma (5-year-old female), a somatic DICER1-associated metastatic peritoneal sarcoma (16-year-old female), and a somatic DICER1-associated primary intracranial sarcoma (4-year-old male).
  • Comprehensive literature review including 83 DICER1-associated sarcomas demonstrates a consistent histologic pattern that mimics pleuropulmonary blastoma regardless of site.
  • Characteristic histologic features include undifferentiated small round blue cells, poorly differentiated spindle cells, and large bizarre pleomorphic (anaplastic) cells, often with rhabdomyoblastic and/or chondroid differentiation and occasional bone/osteoid formation.
  • The authors state that this heterogeneous histologic pattern should prompt detailed family-history review and DICER1 mutation analysis, facilitating genetic counseling, caregiver education, and imaging-based surveillance.
Limitations: Small case series (n=3) reported from a retrospective/case-report design; Descriptive literature review without systematic meta-analysis or pooled quantitative synthesis; No functional experiments in this report to demonstrate biological causality between DICER1 variants and the described histology; Findings may be subject to reporting/selection bias and limited generalizability.

Expands the phenotypic spectrum of DICER1-associated tumors and highlights a characteristic histology that may indicate underlying DICER1 mutations.

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed · Full text

ReviewMechanismInconclusiveModerate evidenceTier 3 · early human

DICER1 Syndrome

Klinicka onkologie : casopis Ceske a Slovenske onkologicke spolecnosti · Jul 2019

pleuropulmonary blastomamultinodular goiterovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumorcystic nephromamedulloepithelioma (ciliary body/iris)embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (botryoid type)nasal epithelial/chondromesenchymal hamartomapituitary blastomapineoblastomadifferentiated thyroid carcinomapulmonary blastomawell-differentiated fetal lung adenocarcinomaanaplastic sarcoma of the kidneyprimary ovarian sarcomaPPB-like peritoneal sarcomamulticystic liver neoplasmsWilms tumor

This article summarizes the clinical features, genetic diagnosis, management, and surveillance recommendations for DICER1 syndrome, an inherited disorder caused by germline DICER1 pathogenic variants that predispose to a spectrum of benign and malignant tumors. It lists the most common associated tumors (e.g., pleuropulmonary blastoma, thyroid nodules, ovarian Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors) and gives recommended surveillance schedules and guidance on genetic testing and cascade testing for relatives. The authors note autosomal dominant inheritance with reduced penetrance and state diagnosis is by identification of a heterozygous germline DICER1 pathogenic variant.

Key findings
  • DICER1 syndrome is caused by pathogenic variants in the DICER1 gene (located at chromosome 14q32.13) and is associated with increased risk of a spectrum of malignant and benign tumors.
  • The most common clinical features include lung cysts and thyroid nodules; common neoplasms include pleuropulmonary blastoma, Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor, pediatric cystic nephroma, and differentiated thyroid carcinoma.
  • A broad and variable tumor spectrum is reported, with many tumors occurring before age 40 and PPB typically presenting in children younger than seven years.
  • Diagnosis is established by identification of a heterozygous germline DICER1 pathogenic variant presumed to cause loss of function.
  • Management of DICER1-associated tumors is tumor-type dependent and may include surgery, chemotherapy, and in some cases radiation; surveillance recommendations (based on the 2016 International PPB Register) are provided for chest imaging, thyroid ultrasound, pelvic and abdominal ultrasound, ophthalmologic assessment, and neurologic monitoring.
  • Genetic counseling is recommended, with cascade testing of at-risk first-degree relatives and consideration of testing soon after birth because screening often begins in infancy.
Limitations: This is a review/clinical overview rather than original primary quantitative research.; Surveillance recommendations are presented but the abstract does not provide quantitative evidence of their effectiveness.; Recommendations appear to be based on existing guidance (2016 International PPB Register) and may reflect expert consensus rather than prospective trial data.; Variable penetrance and broad tumor spectrum limit precise risk prediction for individual carriers..

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed

Animal studyReported positivePreclinical onlyTier 2 · animal

Therapeutic management of peritoneal ascitic sarcomatosis by Ruta graveolens: A study in experimental mice

Pathology, research and practice · Sep 2018

peritoneal sarcomatosisperitoneal neoplasmssarcoma-180 ascites

In a mouse model of ascitic Sarcoma-180, the authors administered Ruta graveolens loco-regionally and examined tumour cells. They report increased anti-tumour immunity, tumour cell cytotoxicity, disruption of cellular energetics, induction of apoptosis and impairment of cell division. Expression of c-Myc and Aurora kinase A decreased while Chk-2 and CD95 increased in ascitic tumour cells. The authors conclude these findings indicate potential therapeutic utility of Ruta in managing malignant peritoneal ascites in this experimental model.

Key findings
  • Loco-regional administration of Ruta graveolens in Sarcoma-180 ascites mice was associated with boosting of anti-tumour immunity and generation of tumour cell cytotoxicity.
  • Ruta administration produced disruption of cellular energetics, induction of apoptosis and simultaneous impairment of cell division in tumour cells.
  • Expressional decline of c-Myc oncoproteins and Aurora kinase A, together with upregulation of tumour suppressor Chk-2 and apoptosis inducer CD95, was observed in ascitic tumour cells after Ruta treatment.
Limitations: Animal study in mice only—no human data.; Abstract provides no sample size, dosing regimen, duration, or control/comparator details.; Endpoints reported are molecular and cytopathological/surrogate outcomes, not clinical outcomes such as survival or symptom relief.; Loco-regional administration in mice may not translate to human clinical settings..

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed

Animal studyReported positivePreclinical onlyTier 2 · animal

17-AAG mediated targeting of Hsp90 limits tert activity in peritoneal sarcoma related malignant ascites by downregulating cyclin D1 during cell cycle entry

Experimental oncology · Jul 2012

peritoneal sarcoma-related malignant ascitessarcoma-180

In mice bearing peritoneal sarcoma-180 malignant ascites, intraperitoneal 17-AAG was given in divided doses over 15 days. Treatment reduced malignant-ascites cell proliferation and viability, was associated with downregulation of Hsp90 client proteins including TERT, cyclin D1 and PCNA, induced micronucleus-containing (error-prone) cells, reduced GM-CSF–associated peripheral neutrophilia, and improved median survival time. The study reports these effects in an animal model and does not provide human data.

Key findings
  • 17-AAG was administered intraperitoneally at 330 µg/kg/day for 5 days followed by 166 µg/kg/day for 10 days in mice with full-grown peritoneal sarcoma-180 ascites.
  • Treatment led to drastic downregulation of TERT and cyclin D1 at the point of cell-cycle entry and reduced PCNA, attributed to modulation of Hsp90 folding machinery.
  • Malignant ascitic cells exhibited mitotic errors and micronucleus formation and showed low viability after treatment.
  • Peripheral neutrophilia driven by overexpression of GM-CSF from the ascites was controlled by 17-AAG treatment.
  • Overall, the treatment modality improved median survival time in the treated mice.
Limitations: Animal study only (mouse model); no human data.; Abstract does not report sample sizes or statistical values.; No numeric magnitude or statistical significance reported for survival improvement or other endpoints in the abstract.; Comparator/control group details are not provided in the abstract.; Toxicity, safety, and dose-ranging data are not presented in the abstract..

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed

Animal studyReported positivePreclinical onlyTier 2 · animal

Application of anti-methotrexate Fab fragments for the optimization of intraperitoneal methotrexate therapy in a murine model of peritoneal cancer

Journal of pharmaceutical sciences · Sep 2005 · preclinical comparative study in mice (dose and survival comparisons)

Methotrexateperitoneal sarcoma (Sarcoma 180)

In a mouse peritoneal cancer model, investigators produced anti-methotrexate Fab fragments (AMF), measured their pharmacokinetics, and tested whether systemic AMF could permit higher intraperitoneal methotrexate (MTX) doses and improve survival. AMF had a mean terminal half-life of 10.9 +/- 3.3 h and 28% +/- 7% s.c. bioavailability (at 2.2 g/kg). Co-administration of s.c. AMF (4.2 g/kg) increased the maximally tolerated i.p. MTX dose from 1.9 mg/kg to 10 mg/kg and increased median survival in some combination groups (e.g., to 17 and 14 days for MTX 7.5 or 10 mg/kg plus AMF).

Reported effects: mean terminal half-life of AMF 10.9 · s.c. bioavailability at 2.2 g/kg 28% · +7 more

Studied with: methotrexate.

Key findings
  • The mean terminal half-life of AMF was found to be 10.9 +/- 3.3 h and was not dose-dependent, and s.c. bioavailability was 28% +/- 7% at 2.2 g/kg.
  • In mice bearing peritoneal tumors, the maximally tolerated dose of i.p. MTX increased from 1.9 mg/kg (following i.p. MTX alone) to 10 mg/kg (with co-administration of s.c. AMF).
  • Median survival times for saline-treated control animals and animals receiving i.p. MTX (1.9, 2.8, 3.8 mg/kg) were 9, 12, 10, and 7 days, respectively.
  • For animals receiving combination therapy with i.p. MTX 7.5 or 10 mg/kg and 4.2 g/kg s.c. AMF, median survival time increased to 17 and 14 days, respectively.
Limitations: Animal (murine) study only — results may not translate to humans.; Single tumor model (Sarcoma 180) tested.; Sample sizes per group are not reported in the abstract.; No detailed toxicity or long-term outcome data reported in the abstract..

AI summary of the abstract, human-reviewed · Jun 2026. Describes what this study reported, not medical advice. View on PubMed

Browse all studies mentioning Peritoneal Sarcoma

Study mix

11 published studies by what they were done in. Lab and animal findings often do not carry over to people.

3 Human3 Animal5 Review/other
Reported directionReported positive8Reported negative1Inconclusive2

Compounds with reported-positive results in Peritoneal Sarcoma

Where at least one study reported a positive result, shown with the full picture, not just the wins. Positive results are more likely to be published, and most of these are early lab or animal studies that may not translate to people. This reports what studies found, not what works.

Preclinical only: lab / animal (1)
Methotrexate1 positive1 animal
Limitations: Animal (murine) study only — results may not translate to humans.; Single tumor model (Sarcoma 180) tested.; Sample sizes per group are not reported in the abstract.; No detailed toxicity or long-term outcome data reported in the abstract..
Cited positive studies (1)

Evidence at a glance: compounds studied in Peritoneal Sarcoma

A deterministic grade of what published studies report for each: strength of evidence, the reported direction, and the largest credible effect, strongest-evidence first. This summarizes findings; it is not a claim that anything works.

MethotrexateAnimal onlyReported positive1 animal

Animal studies only — no human data.

Largest credible effect: mean terminal half-life of AMF 10.9 PMID 16052545 · median-survival values 7–17 across 6 studies

Most authoritative study: Application of anti-methotrexate Fab fragments for the optimization of intraperitoneal methotrexate therapy in a murine model of peritoneal cancer

No human studies yet · Based on a single study.

What the research shows for Peritoneal Sarcoma

A plain-language summary of the reviewed studies OncoForge tracks for Peritoneal Sarcoma. It reports what those studies described, not a claim that any compound or therapy helps or harms Peritoneal Sarcoma. Most of this evidence is early, and findings often conflict.

  • Studies report that DICER1 gene alterations (germline or somatic) have been identified in a small number of pediatric sarcoma cases, including at least one reported metastatic peritoneal sarcoma (case reports/series).
  • Studies report a literature review of DICER1-associated sarcomas (about 83 cases overall across several sarcoma types) showing a recurring association between DICER1 alterations and a spectrum of rare sarcomas, but the review does not provide robust population-level frequency data for peritoneal sarcoma specifically.
  • Studies report summaries of DICER1 syndrome emphasizing clinical features, genetic diagnosis, and surveillance recommendations for the broader syndrome; these reviews synthesize existing case-based and observational evidence rather than prospective trials.
  • Studies report that the available evidence is observational, comprised mainly of case reports and small series with heterogeneous tumor types and ages, so findings about DICER1 in peritoneal sarcoma remain preliminary and limited.

Supportive & alternative options discussed

  • Hyperthermia (heat): Also discussed as a supportive locoregional option in some peritoneal malignancies (for example heated intraperitoneal approaches), but this modality was not evaluated in the studies provided.
  • Acupuncture: Also discussed as a supportive option for symptom control (pain, nausea) in cancer care in general; it was not evaluated in the studies provided.
  • Exercise / prehabilitation: Also discussed as a supportive option to help maintain physical function and quality of life for people with cancer; it was not evaluated in the studies provided.
  • Mind–body (MBSR / CBT): Also discussed as a supportive approach for coping, stress reduction, and quality of life in cancer care; it was not evaluated in the studies provided.
  • Ketogenic / metabolic therapy: Also discussed by some as a complementary dietary approach in cancer, but evidence is limited and this topic was not addressed in the studies provided.

What we don’t know yet

  • How common are germline or somatic DICER1 mutations specifically among people with peritoneal sarcoma?
  • Whether the presence of a DICER1 alteration affects prognosis, treatment selection, or response in peritoneal sarcoma is not established by these studies.
  • Should patients with peritoneal sarcoma undergo routine DICER1 genetic testing or germline evaluation, and if so which patients, remains unclear.
  • No clinical trials or systematic studies define targeted therapies or management strategies specific to DICER1-mutant peritoneal sarcoma.
  • Long-term outcomes, optimal surveillance, and age-related patterns for peritoneal sarcoma cases linked to DICER1 are not defined by the current case-based literature.
Overall, the evidence consists mainly of case reports, small series, and narrative reviews, so it is preliminary and does not provide definitive clinical guidance for peritoneal sarcoma.

Clinical trials in Peritoneal Sarcoma

9 ongoing · 21 completed · tracked from ClinicalTrials.gov. Recruiting is not the same as proven, and completed is not the same as positive — read the results. Not a recommendation.

Completed
10 stopped (terminated / withdrawn / suspended)

Search all trials on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Getting care & support

Nonprofit / Gov

Practical, vetted help for Peritoneal Sarcoma — advocacy, paying for treatment, second opinions, and caregivers.

If you’re struggling emotionally, you don’t have to wait.

Advocacy & community

No dedicated organization for this specific cancer is curated yet — these general organizations can help in the meantime.

Financial help

  • PAN FoundationCopay assistance funds by diagnosis (funds open and close as money allows). · status changes often — check the fund’s site
  • HealthWell FoundationCopay and premium assistance funds by disease. · status changes often — check the fund’s site
  • CancerCare — financial assistanceLimited grants plus free financial counseling. · status changes often — check the fund’s site
  • Family ReachHelp with everyday living costs (rent, transport, food) during treatment. · status changes often — check the fund’s site
  • NeedyMedsSearchable directory of drug patient-assistance and discount programs. · status changes often — check the fund’s site
What you’ll typically need to apply
  • Your diagnosis and, if you have it, the specific drug/treatment name (from your care team).
  • Insurance details — your member ID card, or a note that you're uninsured (some funds require active insurance, some don't).
  • Proof of income and household size (recent pay stubs, a tax return, or a benefits letter) — most funds are income-based.
  • Your prescriber's contact information; some programs need the clinic to submit part of the application.
  • Apply early and re-check: funds open and close as money is available, so a closed fund may reopen.

General guidance — each program sets its own eligibility. Confirm requirements on the program’s site.

Help paying for the medicines on this page

Second opinions

Caregiver support

We list only non-profit and government resources — never product sellers — and take no affiliate fees. If a link is broken or a resource doesn't meet that bar, tell us.

Heading to an appointment? Get a printable one-page summary — studied compounds, open trials, interactions, and questions to ask.
Bring this to your appointment →