Soft tissue tumors of the musculoskeletal system: (i) Classification, clinical features, preoperative assessment and staging of soft tissue tumors

Soft tissue tumors are a heterogeneous group of mesenchymal neoplasms. The histological classification of these tumors is often difficult, requiring special stains and studies. The clinical presentation is seldom diagnostic. Preoperative evaluation often requires sophisticated imaging studies followed by biopsy. The information gained in this fashion is then used to stage the tumor, and then the treating physician can offer an educated opinion regarding prognosis and treatment. Classification and staging will most likely change significantly in the next decade as the knowledge and tools of molecular biology are applied to the evaluation of soft tissue tumors.