Soft tissue sarcomas

Abstract

Soft tissue sarcomas are usually initially identified by ultrasound for superficial lesions or computed tomography for deep lesions. Lesions identified with suspicious features or above a certain size require further assessment with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI imaging provides superior soft tissue contrast for characterization of the sarcoma. However, biopsy is usually required for definitive histological diagnosis. Biopsy may commonly require the use of ultrasound or CT, to target the region most likely to yield a positive diagnosis. MRI also has a crucial role in following treatment response, surgical planning, and post-surgical follow-up. Computed tomography is used routinely to detect metastatic disease for staging. The emerging role of nuclear medicine will also be discussed in the chapter.