A bibliometric analysis of the research landscape of Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor

Objective Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is an important focus in oncology, yet no bibliometric analysis has systematically characterized this field. This study aimed to analyze publication trends and research hotspots in DSRCT, and to guide future research. Methods DSRCT literature was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). Following rigorous screening, bibliometric analyses were conducted using Microsoft Excel 2021, VOSviewer, CiteSpace, Charticulator, and Scimago Graphica. WoSCC data were analyzed for publication trends, collaboration networks, journal distributions, and keyword co-occurrence. Results A total of 491 qualified publications were identified, authored by 3,115 researchers from 847 institutions across 49 countries and regions. The annual publication output in this field showed a steady upward trend, indicating a growing academic focus on DSRCT research in the published literature. The United States emerged as the most productive contributor to this research area in terms of both publication volume and citation influence. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center was the most productive research organization, Andrea Hayes-Jordan was the most prolific author, and Peter M. Anderson was the most cited author, which reflects their important academic status in the field as evidenced by bibliometric indicators. Pediatric Blood & Cancer published the largest number of relevant papers, while the American Journal of Surgical Pathology had the highest citation count, indicating the different positioning and influence of journals in the dissemination of DSRCT research literature. Furthermore, Multimodal comprehensive therapy, which includes HIPEC, cytoreductive surgery and radiotherapy, together with clinical activity, has emerged as a research hotspot in the field of DSRCT. The main research frontiers comprise therapeutic approaches such as hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, whole abdominopelvic radiotherapy and targeted therapy, as well as molecular targets and pathogenic mechanisms including androgen receptor, HER2 and other related targets. Conclusions This study systematically delineates the developmental landscape of DSRCT research, offering critical insights to guide scholars in contextualizing evolutionary trends, identifying cutting-edge priorities, and advancing clinical translational efforts.