Malignant Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors of Hand and Upper Limb-Malignant Tumors of the Hand and Wrist

Malignant Tumors of the Hand and Wrist

Pdf Summary

Malignant tumors in the hand and wrist are a diverse group of lesions that involve skin, soft tissues, and bone. Skin tumors are the most common, with squamous cell carcinomas being the most prevalent, followed by basal cell carcinomas and malignant melanomas. Other soft-tissue malignancies are less common but may pose diagnostic challenges. They often present as painless masses that have been present for a long time and may appear benign. Delayed or missed diagnosis of these tumors can have serious consequences. Bone malignancies can involve both primary lesions, most commonly chondrosarcomas, as well as metastatic lesions. Regardless of the cell type, treating malignant hand and wrist tumors requires special considerations because of the important function of these structures. Orthopedic surgeons should be familiar with the different types of tumors, the necessary work-up for an accurate diagnosis, and the most effective treatment options. Diagnostic work-up typically involves imaging studies such as radiographs, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bone scans, and positron emission tomography. Biopsy is essential for confirming the diagnosis and determining the appropriate treatment. Treatment options may include excision, amputation, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the type and stage of the tumor. Prognosis varies depending on the tumor type, size, grade, and stage. For certain tumors, such as squamous cell carcinomas and melanomas, sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed to determine the extent of metastasis. Overall, early detection, accurate diagnosis, and prompt treatment are crucial for achieving the best outcomes in patients with malignant tumors of the hand and wrist.

Keywords

malignant tumors

hand

wrist

skin tumors

soft tissues

bone

squamous cell carcinomas

basal cell carcinomas

malignant melanomas

soft-tissue malignancies