Soft tissue neoplasms refer to a wide range of abnormal tissue growths or tumors that originate in the soft tissues of the body, excluding the bone, cartilage, and nervous tissue. Soft tissues include muscles, tendons, fat, blood vessels, lymphatic vessels, fibrous tissues, and connective tissues.
Soft tissue neoplasms can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign neoplasms tend to grow slowly, remain localized, and do not invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body. They are typically not life-threatening unless they cause significant symptoms or impair organ function due to their size or location.
On the other hand, malignant soft tissue neoplasms, commonly referred to as soft tissue sarcomas, are cancerous and have the potential to invade surrounding tissues, metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body, and cause serious health complications. Soft tissue sarcomas can arise from various types of soft tissue cells and can occur at any age, though they are more common in adults.
The exact causes of soft tissue neoplasms are often unknown, but certain risk factors, such as genetic mutations, exposure to radiation or certain chemicals, and certain inherited conditions, may increase the likelihood of developing these tumors. Diagnosis of soft tissue neoplasms typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests (such as MRI or CT scans), and tissue biopsy for microscopic analysis.
Treatment options for soft tissue neoplasms depend on several factors, including the type, size, location, and stage of the tumor, as well as the overall health and preferences of the individual. They may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and/or immunotherapy.
