This page explains dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLS). It includes information about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, as well as where to get more support.   

What is DDLS?

DDLS is a type of cancer called liposarcoma. DDLS often starts as a well-differentiated liposarcoma (WDLS) but changes into a faster-growing form.  

DDLS is most often found in the tummy or the area behind the tummy called the retroperitoneum, but it can also be found in the arms or legs.

Signs and symptoms 

Symptoms of DDLS depend on where the lump is found in the body and how large the lump is.  

If DDLS is found in an arm or leg, you may notice: 

• a painless lump in your arm or leg 
• a lump that is getting bigger or changing.

If DDLS is found in the tummy, you may notice: 

• discomfort, cramping, or pain in the tummy area 
• feeling sick 
• constipation, diarrhoea, or a bloated tummy. 

Diagnosing DDLS 

If you find a lump, your GP will examine you and may refer you to a specialist team. This team will use different scans and tests to see if you have DDLS. 

You might have:

• a CT scan 
• an MRI scan 
• a core needle biopsy (a small sample of tissue taken with a needle). 

We have more information about the different types of scans and tests used to diagnose sarcoma. 

A team of experts called a multidisciplinary team (MDT) will look at your results and work out the diagnosis.  

Treating DDLS 

There are a few different treatment options for DDLS. You and your MDT will discuss these options before starting any treatment. 

After treatment

After treatment for DDLS, you’ll have regular follow-up appointments for several years. At these appointments, you will have: 

• scans and tests to check for any new lumps or signs of DDLS returning 
• a chance to talk about any symptoms you might have. 

We know that some people can feel unsure or lost when treatment finishes. This feeling is completely normal. We have more information about living with and beyond sarcoma. 

Recurrence 

DDLS can sometimes come back in the same area. This is called a recurrence. Follow-up appointments and regular scans will help to monitor recurrence. You can also check for recurrences yourself through self-examination. Your doctor or sarcoma clinical nurse specialist can tell you what to look for.  

We have more information about if sarcoma comes back.  

Metastasis 

If DDLS comes back, it may have spread to another part of the body. This is called metastasis and is sometimes called a secondary sarcoma. 

Secondary sarcomas in DDLS can appear anywhere but are most common in the lungs. You may have chest scans at follow-up appointments to check for this.  

If your sarcoma has spread to a different part of the body, you may be offered additional treatment like chemotherapy, or more surgery or radiation. 

Living with DDLS   

Living with cancer can be difficult. We have support to help you with your mental health, physical health, and we also have financial support. No matter what you’re worried about, we’re here to support you.   

If you have any more questions about DDLS, or if you need to talk to someone, our  Support Line team are here for you.