Soft Tissue Sarcomas
A diverse group of malignant tumours arising from mesenchymal tissues, commonly affecting extremities.
Main Text:
Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are malignant tumours originating from mesenchymal tissues such as fat, muscle, nerves, fibrous tissue, and blood vessels.
They comprise over 50 histologic subtypes, including liposarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma.
STS most frequently occur in the extremities, especially the thigh, and may present as a painless, enlarging mass.
MRI is the imaging modality of choice. Biopsy (preferably core needle) must be performed after imaging and in coordination with the surgical team.
Treatment is based on wide surgical excision with negative margins, often combined with radiotherapy.
Chemotherapy is reserved for specific subtypes or metastatic disease.
Multidisciplinary care involving orthopaedic oncologists, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists is essential.
Prognosis is influenced by tumour size, depth, grade, and margin status.
