A Study of Benign Soft Tissue Tumors in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital: Clinico-Radiological Evaluation

Background: Benign soft tissue swellings (BSTS) are a common clinical presentation in tertiary care settings. Accurate diagnosis and management rely heavily on a combination of clinical assessment and radiological imaging. This study aims to evaluate the clinicoradiological approach to diagnosing BSTS in a tertiary teaching hospital. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on patients presenting with soft tissue swellings at a tertiary teaching hospital over nine months. Clinical examination and history-taking were followed by radiological evaluations, including ultrasound (USG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) and histopathology when necessary. Data on patient demographics, clinical features, radiological and histopathological findings and final diagnoses were collected and analyzed. Results: A total of 100 patients were included in the study. USG was the first-line imaging modality used in all cases, providing definitive diagnoses for 98% of benign, and 2% malignant lesions. MRI was employed in 3% of cases with equivocal or suspicious lesions, offering superior detail for deep-seated and vascular swellings. HPE was utilized in 10% of cases to assess atypical cases to confirm the findings obtained from USG. The most common benign lesions identified were lipomas, epidermal inclusion cysts and ganglion cysts. Radiological findings were consistent with clinical diagnoses in 90% of the cases. Conclusion: The integration of clinical and radiological evaluations is crucial for the accurate diagnosis and management of benign soft tissue swellings. USG remains the primary imaging tool, with MRI and histopathology and detailed insights when necessary. Early and precise diagnosis through a clinicoradiological approach ensures optimal patient care and management outcomes.