Imaging findings of primary retroperitoneal tumors

A retrospective study was conducted in 26 primary retroperitoneal tumors which had been histologically proved (5 leiomyosarcomas, 7 neurogenic tumors, 3 malignant fibrous histiocytomas, 4 liposarcomas, 5 malignant lymphomas, one lipoma, and one synovial sarcoma). The object of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of imaging findings in differentiation of the tumors. In case of neurogenic tumor, its location and CT density provided a better characterization of the tumor. The pattern of spread and relatively homogeneous interior can frequently suggest the likelihood of malignant lymphoma. Lipoma and most types of liposarcoma can be diagnosed on the basis of their lipid element. Apart from these tumors, few retroperitoneal tumors have imaging features that allow them to be histologically distinguished from other types. (author)