Ultrasound evaluation of soft tissue tumors

Because of its availability, ultrasound should be the preferred initial modality for the evaluation of palpable superficial masses. Most ultrasound units are equipped with high frequency probes that allow superficial focalization. The differential diagnosis of soft tissue masses and the sonographic features of some benign and malignant soft tissue lesions are reviewed in this article. After an initial ultrasound evaluation confirming the presence of a tumor, the need for and the role of other imaging modalities can be determined. In selected cases ultrasound may obviate the need for further imaging. MRI and CT should be reserved for cases in which sonography fails to establish a specific diagnosis or to demonstrate the limits of the soft tissue mass.