[Myxoid liposarcoma of the retroperitoneum. Presentation of a clinical case]

Of all the soft tissue sarcomas, those localised in the retroperitoneum represent a particular challenge to the surgeon. Diagnosis is often late, when the tumour has already reached considerable proportions, creating particular problems for its removal. Liposarcomas are the most common histological form of retroperitoneal tumour. The authors report the case of a patient with retroperitoneal myxoid liposarcoma and use their analysis as the starting point for a review of the literature focused on the diagnosis and treatment of retroperitoneal tumours. They underline that modern imaging techniques (Eco, CT, NMR) are essential during the preoperative stage for a complete and detailed study of the neoplasm, as well as during follow-up. With regard to treatment, surgery is still the most effective approach in cases where this is feasible. The current trend towards aggressive surgery is backed by the improved results in terms of survival. An improved prognosis for patients with retroperitoneal tumours is linked to an early diagnosis and the development of more efficacious complementary therapies.