Analysis of CT images of soft tissue sarcomas

Objective:To investigate the value of CT in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of soft tissue sarcomas.Methods:Seventy cases of soft tissue sarcoma proved by surgery/biopsy with pathology diagnosis were collected.On the base of WHO classification of soft tissue tumors(2002),the size,morphology,margin,density and relationship of the tumor with adjacent structures assessed on CT were retrospectively analyzed and correlated with pathology.The value of these findings in diagnosis and differential diagnosis were studied.Results:Of these 70 cases,the average size of tumor was 7.8cm×9.3cm×11.2cm.43 tumors were irregular or lobulated in shape,52 tumors were heterogeneous in density with necrosis,hemorrhage or calcification,53 tumors had ill-defined margin or adjacent structures invasion and uneven enhancement was revealed after contrast administration.Malignant characteristics were clearly depicted on CT in 58 lesions and correct histo-pathology diagnosis was suggested in 18 cases.Conclusion:The extent,intra-tumoral/marginal characteristics as well as the relationship with adjacent structures of soft tissue sarcomas could be clearly depicted on CT,which provides important value in the diagnosis and differential diagnosis,yet the value of CT is quite limit in providing histology diagnosis for most of the soft tissue sarcomas.