[Sarcomas : Clinical introduction]

Sarcomas are malignant tumors of connective and supporting tissues characterized by substantial biological and clinical heterogeneity. Their optimal treatment requires specialized expertise, particularly in radiological diagnostics. The correct interpretation of imaging procedures represents the first crucial step in treatment planning. Radiologists play a key role by recognizing suspicious findings and initiating early referral to specialized sarcoma centers. Depending on the histological subtype, sarcomas require tailored imaging strategies. A notable example is whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the detection of osseous metastases in myxoid liposarcoma. The assessment of treatment response in the neoadjuvant setting also poses a particular challenge as it is not uncommon for treatment-related imaging changes to mimic tumor progression (pseudoprogression) and must be reliably distinguished from true progression. During follow-up an appropriate balance between oncologic safety, such as early detection of local recurrence or metastases, and minimizing cumulative radiation exposure must be achieved.