Extraskeletal osteosarcoma: spectrum of imaging findings

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2012 Jan;198(1):W31-7. doi: 10.2214/AJR.11.6927.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this article is to present the spectrum of imaging findings of primary and metastatic extraskeletal osteosarcoma and highlight the differences from primary osteogenic osteosarcoma in bone.

Conclusion: Extraskeletal osteosarcoma is a rare mesenchymal malignancy of soft tissue, histologically indistinguishable from primary osteosarcoma of bone. However, there are distinct differences in demographics, imaging features, prognosis, and management compared with osteogenic osteosarcoma. Imaging characteristics reflect tumor morphology, with only 50% of primary tumors showing mineralization. Metastases may or may not show mineralization, even if present in the primary tumor. The overall prognosis is poor.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diagnostic Imaging*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Metastasis
  • Osteosarcoma / diagnosis*
  • Osteosarcoma / pathology
  • Prognosis
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Soft Tissue Neoplasms / pathology

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Radiopharmaceuticals