Role of Ultrasound in the Diagnosis Approach of Malignant Solitary Fibrous Tumor

Abstract

A solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is a rare neoplasm of mesenchymal origin that comprises less than 2% of all softtissue tumors. 1 SFT occurs in adults 20 to 70 years old and most frequently in those of about 54 years of age, with no gender predilection. 2 SFT components show a mix of connective tissue, cells, and hypervascular areas that consist of varied sizes of multiple blood vessels. 3 SFT has been related to hypoglycemia as well as the production of insulin-like growth factor, osteoarthropathy, and arthralgia. 4 SFTs can be found in the head (mostly in the orbital area), chest wall, mediastinum, pericardium, retroperitoneum, abdominal cavity, or in rare sites such as the meninges, salivary glands, adrenals, urinary bladder, or testis. 2 Forty percent of SFT cases are found in the subcutaneous layer of tissue. 3 Although an SFT is considered a benign tumor, because of its well-defined soft-tissue composition, 10% to 15% of SFTs recur and/or metastasize. 3 An SFT located in the extremities, especially in the legs, has a high possibility of developing into a malignancy. 3 It is important to use diagnostic medical sonography effectively to determine the characterization of a suspected lesion. 5 The radiologist interpreting the sonogram is expected to provide useful information to the referring physician as well as classify the tumor as benign or malignant. 6 The proper diagnostic approach for either a benign or malignant tumor will determine the proper treatment for the patient.