soft tissue sarcoma
Also written as: STS — soft tissue sarcoma
A malignant tumor arising from mesenchymal tissues including muscle, fat, connective tissue, and blood vessels.
Full Definition
Soft tissue sarcoma represents a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors originating from mesenchymal tissues such as muscle, fat, fibrous tissue, blood vessels, and nerves. These tumors can occur anywhere in the body but most commonly affect the extremities, trunk, and retroperitoneum. Diagnosis requires histopathological examination with immunohistochemical staining and often molecular testing for specific translocations. Treatment typically involves surgical resection with wide margins, and may include radiation therapy and chemotherapy depending on tumor grade, size, and location. Prognosis varies significantly based on histologic subtype and grade.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify histologic subtype and grade when known, as these significantly affect treatment and prognosis.
In Context
- "The thigh mass was diagnosed as high-grade soft tissue sarcoma requiring multimodal therapy." — Oncology consultation
- "Wide excision was planned for the retroperitoneal soft tissue sarcoma." — Surgical planning