Soft tissue tumours

Abstract Soft tissue tumours comprise a heterogeneous group of tumours. They can be benign, locally invasive, rarely metastasizing, or frankly malignant. Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children. The others are conventionally grouped as non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcomas, some of which occur uniquely in children. Most tumours occur sporadically, but a few arise in patients with cancer predisposition syndromes. Several sarcomas have cytogenetic abnormalities that are used to differentiate sarcoma subtypes, and are useful prognostic markers for treatment stratification. Many patients present with a painless lump, and others with site-specific signs and symptoms. A diagnosis is obtained with a well-planned biopsy. Patients are assessed in the context of both presurgical and post-surgical staging systems, and this information is combined with other patient-, tumour-, and treatment-related factors to gain a thorough understanding of how to proceed with management. Treatment of soft tissue sarcomas is specific to the type of tumour.