Diagnosis of primary retroperitoneal tumors

An analysis of 27 cases of primary retroperitoneal tumors and a review of the literature are presented. Techniques available for the diagnosis of these neoplasms are discussed. Sarcoma is the most common histopathologic type. A painful abdominal mass is the characteristic presentation. Echography, angiography and carbon dioxide pneumography may provide specific diagnostic information but further histopathologic correlation is needed. Angiography should guide the surgical approach routinely. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice for all tumors except for the lymphomas, which are radiosensitive. Radiotherapy has liberal application in the treatment of other histopathologic types.