Learning objectives
Review WHO 2013 pathologic classification and AJCC 8th TNM edition for retroperitoneal aggressive liposarcomas.
Revise imaging findings of these tumors with special emphasis on diagnosis and follow up to detect local recurrences.
Present several cases diagnosed at our hospital.
Background
Liposarcomas (LPS) is the most common malignant mesenchymal neoplasms,
accounting for approximately 20% of all sarcomas.
Malignant adipocytic tumors are a heterogeneous group of lesions,
with morphologically and genetically distinctive features.
This biologic diversity is associated with remarkable clinical heterogeneity,
ranging from neoplasms of intermediate biologic potential incapable of systemic spread to aggressive sarcomas with a significant potential for metastasis.
LPS are also the most common primary retroperitoneal malignant neoplasms,
representing 33% of all retroperitoneal sarcomas.
Retroperitoneal liposarcomas (RPLPS) usually occur in middle-aged adults in...
Findings and procedure details
The retroperitoneum is a complex space that contains solid organs and hollow viscera,
lymphatics and lymph nodes,
major vascular structures,
and stromal tissues.
It is located between the posterior parietal peritoneum and transversalis fascia.
It is limited cranially by the diaphragm and caudally by the pelvis.
It is divided into four compartments: perirenal,
anterior pararenal,
posterior pararenal and the great vessels space.
Different imaging techniques can be used to evaluate RPLPS:
Conventional radiography (CR)
Ultrasound (US) and Doppler US
Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT)
Magnetic resonance...
Conclusion
Retroperitoneal liposarcomas are rare nonetheless they are the most common primary retroperitoneal malignant neoplasms.
They are slow growing masses with subtle clinical expression.
Radiologists play a primary role in assessing preoperative diagnosis and the extent of the tumor.
There are no specific findings to distinguish with certainty different subtypes of RPLPS.
Pathology is the definitive diagnosis.
Aggressive treatment with complete surgical resection is the only potentially curative option.
It must be performed in experienced centers with multidisciplinary teams.
Radiologists must understand the usual evolution of...
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