Soft-tissue sarcoma in adults: Imaging appearances, pitfalls and diagnostic algorithms

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Soft-tissue sarcomas (STSs) are rare, heterogeneous mesenchymal malignancies.
• Accurate initial diagnosis is crucial for effective patient management.
• Diagnostic imaging plays a pivotal role in identifying and characterizing soft-tissue masses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of current knowledge on diagnostic imaging for soft-tissue sarcomas.
• To present a diagnostic flowchart for radiologists based on radiological findings.
• To highlight the role of reference centers and radiologists in early STS detection.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature, guidelines, and expert viewpoints on STS imaging.
• Development of a diagnostic flowchart for soft-tissue masses, focusing on adipocytic, hemorrhagic, and retroperitoneal STTs.
• Discussion of imaging-guided biopsy techniques and advanced imaging for grading.

Main Results:

• A structured diagnostic approach for soft-tissue masses is presented.
• Emphasis on the importance of specialized sarcoma centers and radiologist expertise.
• Integration of novel research and expert opinions into diagnostic strategies.

Conclusions:

• Radiologists are key in the early identification of soft-tissue sarcomas.
• A systematic imaging approach aids in differentiating STSs from benign masses.
• Advanced imaging techniques and biopsies improve diagnostic accuracy and grading.