Solitary fibrous tumor

Diagnosis

Various tests and procedures are typically utilized in the diagnosis of solitary fibrous tumors. These may include:

• Imaging tests: Various imaging techniques, including X–rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, are employed to visualize tumors, ascertain their dimensions and positions, and identify any potential spread to different body regions.
• Biopsy: A biopsy involves the removal of a small tissue sample from the suspected tumor site for laboratory analysis. 

Treatment

The treatment approach for solitary fibrous tumors typically involves a combination of strategies tailored to the individual case. The specific treatment options may include:

• Surgery: Surgery is typically the primary treatment for solitary fibrous tumors, with the removal of the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue being the main goal. The type of surgery depends on the specific location of the tumor within the body.

Following surgery, additional treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be recommended to reduce the risk of tumor recurrence.

• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy. Radiation therapy uses powerful energy beams to kill tumor cells. The energy can come from X–rays, protons or other sources. During radiation therapy, you lie on a table while a machine moves around you. The machine directs radiation to precise points on your body.

Radiation therapy may be recommended after surgery if complete removal of the tumor is not possible. Its purpose is to reduce the risk of tumor recurrence following surgery. In some cases, radiation therapy is administered before surgery to shrink the tumor, enhancing the likelihood of complete tumor removal.

• Chemotherapy: This treatment approach involves the administration of potent medications to kill tumor cells. In the case of a solitary fibrous tumor, chemotherapy may be considered when the tumor has metastasized or cannot be surgically removed in order to destroy the cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a specialized treatment approach that employs medications designed to specifically target and inhibit the activity of certain chemicals present in tumor cells. By disrupting these specific chemicals, targeted therapies have the potential to effectively eliminate tumor cells. In the case of a cancerous solitary fibrous tumor that has metastasized to other parts of the body, targeted therapy may be considered as a treatment option to combat the spread and growth of the tumor.