The clinical evaluation of soft tissue tumors

Soft tissue tumors range from benign subcutaneous lipomas to malignant deep high-grade sarcomas. Patients are evaluated with a thorough history and physical examination followed by imaging studies. Magnetic resonance imaging is the modality of choice, although radiographs, computed tomography, and other modalities may be of value. Open or closed biopsy can be performed to establish a diagnosis. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and includes observation or marginal excision for benign lesions and wide resection for malignant masses, with radiation therapy or chemotherapy for large, high-grade tumors. An algorithm for the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of soft tissue tumors is presented.