Sparber-Sauer M, Brack E, Guillén G, Hiemcke-Jiwa L, Brisse HJ, Corradini N, Brennan B, Schoot RA, Ramirez G, van Noesel M, Metayer L, Hjalgrim LL, Ebinger M, Safwat AA, Heinz AT, Casanova M, Merks JHM, Orbach D, Ferrari A. EJC Paediatric Oncology August 2026 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcped.2026.100543
This paper is a consensus document, developed by the EpSSG with support from the European Reference Network on Paediatric Cancer (ERN PaedCan), and provides evidence-based recommendations for diagnosing, treating, and monitoring young people with non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcomas (NRSTS). It outlines the current standard of care, including the use of surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and follow-up care, while also addressing the unique features of selected tumor types. These recommendations aim to support healthcare professionals in delivering consistent, high-quality care and to improve outcomes for patients across Europe.
The paper also outlines the studies that have led to the development of these guidelines over the last 20 years. It chronicles how NRSTS, previously regarded as somewhat orphan tumors, now have specific treatment protocols. However, NRSTS are rare and heterogeneous tumors whose clinical management is highly complex, making it challenging to develop standardized care protocols. This paper is of great importance because it clarifies the current state of the art, thereby paving the way for the next generation of EpSSG studies dedicated to NRSTS: a future that, in reality, has already begun.
The paper also outlines the studies that have led to the development of these guidelines over the last 20 years. It chronicles how NRSTS, previously regarded as somewhat orphan tumors, now have specific treatment protocols. However, NRSTS are rare and heterogeneous tumors whose clinical management is highly complex, making it challenging to develop standardized care protocols. This paper is of great importance because it clarifies the current state of the art, thereby paving the way for the next generation of EpSSG studies dedicated to NRSTS: a future that, in reality, has already begun.
