The role of diagnostic radiology and radiation therapy in the management of soft tissue sarcomas in children

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Abstract
Soft tissue sarcomas are the fourth most frequent solid tumors in children. They arise at many sites, most frequently in the orbit, head and neck, and pelvis. Diagnostic radiologic studies play an integral role in patient evaluation, allowing direct visualization of the primary lesion, its vascular supply, its direct and regional extensions; of distant metastases; and of anomalies. They aid in staging and selecting treatment, and later, in evaluating results. Radiation therapy is a vital tool in today's multidisciplinary approach. Irradiation has produced a 90% recurrence-free rate, and a 67% cure rate, for orbital rhabdomyosarcoma. A similar improvement in local tumor control rates may apply at other primary sites when an adequate dose is delivered to the affected volume. Multidrug chemotherapy programs provide hope for an increased cure rate. Sufficient time has not yet elapsed to judge fully the late anatomical and physiological costs of these more vigorous multidisciplinary treatments.

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