Magnetic resonance imaging of trunk and extremity myxoid liposarcoma: diagnosis, staging, and response to treatment

Skeletal Radiol. 2021 Oct;50(10):1963-1980. doi: 10.1007/s00256-021-03769-w. Epub 2021 Apr 1.

Abstract

Myxoid liposarcoma (MLS) accounts for approximately 30% of all liposarcomas. The majority are intermediate-grade tumours, but the presence of >5% round cell component renders it a high-grade sarcoma with subsequent poorer outcome. MLS most commonly arises in the lower extremities, has a predilection for extra-pulmonary sites of metastatic disease, and is recognized to be radiosensitive. The purpose of the current article is to review the role of MRI in the management of MLS, including the characteristic features of the primary tumour, features which help to identify a round cell component and thus determine prognosis, the role of whole-body MRI for evaluation of extra-pulmonary metastatic disease, and the utility of MRI for assessing treatment response. The MRI differential diagnosis of MLS is also considered.

Keywords: MRI appearances; Myxoid liposarcoma; Staging; Treatment response.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Humans
  • Liposarcoma*
  • Liposarcoma, Myxoid* / diagnostic imaging
  • Lower Extremity
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Prognosis
  • Retrospective Studies