Solitary fibrous tumors of the soft tissues: review of the imaging and clinical features with histopathologic correlation

Abstract

Objective: Solitary fibrous tumors are rare soft-tissue tumors of submesothelial origin with variable malignant potential. Most of these tumors originate within the thoracic cavity, but they can occur in a variety of sites, including the abdomen, pelvis, and soft tissues and muscles. The purpose of this study was to review the imaging findings with clinicopathologic correlation in 34 cases.

Conclusion: The finding of a large, solid, vascular tumor, particularly with prominent feeding vessels or a visible fatty component, should alert the radiologist to the possible diagnosis of solitary fibrous tumor. Percutaneous biopsy carries minimal risk and should be used for definitive diagnosis of these lesions, which in many cases are curable with surgery. The prognosis is good for patients with benign tumors but variable for those with malignant tumors.