Evaluation of soft-tissue tumors

Soft-tissue masses present a challenge to the practicing physician. Most are of little or no concern and do not need medical attention, but the consequences of missing a sarcoma are significant. It is important to give careful consideration to each soft-tissue mass seen and decide which need further evaluation and which do not. Periodic reexamination is recommended for patients with masses not thought to need biopsy. Patients with more worrisome soft-tissue masses should have at least an MRI scan and then, usually, a biopsy.