Alveolar soft part sarcoma: Clinicopathological analysis and imaging results

Alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS) is a rare, malignant, soft-tissue tumor that accounts for ~1.2% of all soft-tissue sarcomas. Due to its low incidence, clinicians often overlook the diagnosis. However, it is difficult to form an accurate diagnosis prior to surgery due to the lack of experience in imaging diagnosis. The present study reviewed the pathological images, and the computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging data of 6 ASPS cases in order to investigate the clinicopathological and imaging characteristics of the tumor. The present study indicated that the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearances of ASPS are nonspecific, but malignancy may be determined to a certain degree, which may aid in diagnosis prior to surgery and provides information for treatment guidance.