Benign Soft Tissue Tumors — MCQs
Fibrous histiocytoma is classified as which type of tumor?
A 40-year-old patient presents with lower cranial nerve (CN IX, X, XI) palsies, otitis media, and headache. CT scan reveals a mass in the jugular foramen. What is the most likely diagnosis?
A 28-year-old lady presented with wrist pain. X-ray of the wrist shows a lytic eccentric lesion in the lower end of the radius with a soap bubble appearance. What is the next plan of management?
Giant cells are a prominent characteristic feature of which of the following conditions?
Which one of the following is the most common CNS tumor associated with type I neurofibromatosis?
A 22 year old woman comes with a non progressive mass in the left breast since 6 months. There are no associated symptoms. Examination shows a mobile mass not attached to the overlying skin or underlying tissue. The possible diagnosis is
Most common benign tumor of bone:
A child 10 yrs of age presents with a mass on his left thigh. The mass seems to be arising from the diaphysis of the femur and involving the soft tissue of the thigh. The child is having fever also. Give your most probable diagnosis -
Most common benign tumour during infancy is:
Most common intra abdominal solid organ tumor in child is ?
Benign Soft Tissue Tumors Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs
Question 1: Fibrous histiocytoma is classified as which type of tumor?
- A. Epithelial tumor
- B. Soft tissue tumor (Correct Answer)
- C. Germ cell tumor
- D. Lymphoid tumor
Explanation: ***Soft tissue tumor*** - Fibrous histiocytoma is a type of **soft tissue tumor** arising from fibroblasts and histiocytes [1]. - It typically presents as a **nodular mass** and can be mistaken for other spindle cell tumors. *Hemangiopericytoma* - This is a vascular tumor arising from **pericytes**, often presenting as a deep-seated mass rather than a fibrous nodule. - Hemangiopericytoma has a distinct morphology and is associated with **hemorrhagic pathology**, unlike fibrous histiocytoma. *Angiomyolipomas* - Composed of **blood vessels, smooth muscle, and fat**, angiomyolipomas typically occur in the kidneys, not resembling fibrous histiocytoma. - These tumors are often associated with **tuberous sclerosis**, which is not the case for fibrous histiocytoma. *Angiomyosarcoma* - This malignant tumor consists of malignant **vascular and smooth muscle** components, distinct from the benign nature of fibrous histiocytoma. - Angiomyosarcoma has a poor prognosis and is characterized by **aggressive behavior**, unlike the benign fibrous histiocytoma. **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Bones, Joints, and Soft Tissue Tumors, p. 1222.
Question 2: A 40-year-old patient presents with lower cranial nerve (CN IX, X, XI) palsies, otitis media, and headache. CT scan reveals a mass in the jugular foramen. What is the most likely diagnosis?
- A. Glomus jugulare (Correct Answer)
- B. Metastasis
- C. Schwannoma
- D. Meningioma
Explanation: ***Glomus jugulare*** - A **glomus jugulare tumor** (paraganglioma) - It arises in the **jugular bulb** and typically presents with a pulsatile mass, **cranial nerve palsies (IX, X, XI)**, and sometimes symptoms related to middle ear involvement like **otitis media** or conductive hearing loss, along with headache due to mass effect. *Metastasis* - While metastases can cause cranial nerve palsies and present as masses, they are generally not isolated to the **jugular foramen** with the specific constellation of symptoms including **otitis media** unless primary tumor is in the ear and also the history is acute and rapidly progressive - The presentation is more suggestive of a **primary lesion** arising from the structures within or immediately adjacent to the jugular foramen rather than a metastatic deposit. *Schwannoma* - **Schwannomas** (e.g., of CN IX, X, or XI) can occur in the jugular foramen and cause similar cranial nerve palsies. - However, they are less commonly associated with features like **otitis media** or a pulsatile character, which are more specific to a glomus tumor. They are also slower growing *Meningioma* - **Meningiomas** can involve the skull base, including the jugular foramen, leading to cranial neuropathies and headache. - They typically originate from the **dura mater** and generally do not cause otitis media as a direct symptom unless there's extensive local invasion into the middle ear, which is less characteristic than in glomus tumors.
Question 3: A 28-year-old lady presented with wrist pain. X-ray of the wrist shows a lytic eccentric lesion in the lower end of the radius with a soap bubble appearance. What is the next plan of management?
- A. Extended curettage with phenol
- B. Biopsy of the lesion (Correct Answer)
- C. Bone curettage and bone grafting
- D. Extended curettage with phenol and bone grafting
Explanation: ***Biopsy of the lesion*** - A definitive **diagnosis is crucial** before any surgical intervention for a bone lesion, especially one with a characteristic appearance like "soap bubble." Biopsy will confirm the nature of the lesion, ruling out malignancy and guiding treatment. - The presented lesion, with its **lytic, eccentric, soap-bubble appearance** in the lower radius of a young adult, is highly suggestive of a **giant cell tumor (GCT)**. However, other diagnoses like chondroblastoma or aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) can also mimic this appearance. *Extended curettage with phenol* - This is a treatment option for certain benign aggressive bone tumors like **giant cell tumors** after diagnosis, not the initial diagnostic step. - Performing this procedure without a **histological diagnosis** could lead to inappropriate treatment for other possible lesions. *Bone curettage and bone grafting* - This is a surgical treatment method typically used for **benign bone tumors** to remove the lesion and fill the defect, but it is performed after a definitive diagnosis. - **Performing it blindly** without knowing the exact pathology carries the risk of inadequate treatment or unnecessary surgery for a lesion that might require different management. *Extended curettage with phenol and bone grafting* - This comprehensive treatment often follows a **confirmed diagnosis** of an aggressive but benign bone tumor like GCT to minimize recurrence. - It is not the **initial diagnostic step** and carries risks if the underlying pathology is not accurately identified.
Question 4: Giant cells are a prominent characteristic feature of which of the following conditions?
- A. Osteoclastoma (Correct Answer)
- B. Chondroblastoma
- C. Chordoma
- D. Osteitis fibrosa cystica
Explanation: ***Osteoclastoma*** - Also known as **giant cell tumor of bone**, it is characterized by the presence of numerous **multinucleated giant cells** [1]. - These giant cells are derived from **osteoclasts**, indicating the aggressive nature of this tumor [1]. *Osteitis fibrosa cystica* - While it may show giant cells, they are less prominent and often associated with **hyperparathyroidism** affecting the bone. - This condition primarily involves **bone resorption** and **cyst formation**, not defined by giant cell formation. *Chordoma* - Chordomas are typically composed of **bizarre cells** with a characteristic **mucous** stroma and do not predominantly contain giant cells. - They arise from **notochord remnants**, primarily found in the axial skeleton, rather than from bone cells. *Chondroblastoma* - This tumor primarily features **chondroblasts** and small cellular components, not giant cells. - It is usually seen in young adults and commonly involves the **epiphyses of long bones**, showing a different histological pattern. **References:** [1] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Bones, Joints, and Soft Tissue Tumors, pp. 1205-1206.
Question 5: Which one of the following is the most common CNS tumor associated with type I neurofibromatosis?
- A. Optic nerve glioma (Correct Answer)
- B. Meningioma
- C. Acoustic schwannoma
- D. Low grade astrocytoma
Explanation: ***Optic nerve glioma*** - **Optic nerve gliomas** are the most frequently encountered central nervous system tumors in patients with **Type 1 neurofibromatosis (NF1)**, occurring in about 15% of individuals. - They are typically low-grade **astrocytomas** and can cause vision loss and proptosis depending on their size and location. *Meningioma* - While more common in **Type 2 neurofibromatosis (NF2)**, meningiomas can occur in NF1, but are not the most common CNS tumor. - Meningiomas are tumors that arise from the **meninges**, the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. *Acoustic schwannoma* - **Bilateral acoustic schwannomas (vestibular schwannomas)** are the hallmark feature of **Type 2 neurofibromatosis (NF2)**, not NF1 [1]. - These tumors arise from the Schwann cells of the **vestibulocochlear nerve** and can cause hearing loss and balance issues [1]. *Low grade astrocytoma* - While optic nerve gliomas are a type of low-grade astrocytoma, this option is too general; **optic nerve glioma** is the specific and most common presentation in NF1. - Other forms of low-grade astrocytomas can occur in NF1 but are not as universally characteristic as optic nerve gliomas.
Question 6: A 22 year old woman comes with a non progressive mass in the left breast since 6 months. There are no associated symptoms. Examination shows a mobile mass not attached to the overlying skin or underlying tissue. The possible diagnosis is
- A. Fibroadenoma (Correct Answer)
- B. Cystasarcoma Phylloides
- C. Scirrhous Carcinoma
- D. Fibroadenosis
Explanation: ***Fibroadenoma*** - This is the most common benign breast tumor in young women, typically presenting as a **mobile, non-tender, firm mass** with no attachment to surrounding tissues. - The history of a **non-progressive mass** over six months in a 22-year-old woman is highly characteristic of a fibroadenoma. *Cystasarcoma Phylloides* - While it can present as a mobile mass, phyllodes tumors tend to grow **rapidly** and can reach a large size, which contradicts the "non-progressive" nature of the mass described. - Phyllodes tumors often have a **leaf-like architectural pattern** histologically and can be benign, borderline, or malignant. *Scirrhous Carcinoma* - This is a type of invasive ductal carcinoma that typically presents as a **hard, irregular, fixed mass** that is often attached to the skin or underlying tissue, unlike the mobile mass described here. - It is common in older women and often associated with **skin dimpling** or nipple retraction. *Fibroadenosis* - This refers to a group of benign breast changes, often presenting with generalized **lumpiness, pain, or tenderness** that fluctuates with the menstrual cycle, rather than a discrete, solitary mass. - It usually presents as **multiple, diffuse nodules** rather than a single, well-defined mass.
Question 7: Most common benign tumor of bone:
- A. Bone cyst
- B. Osteochondroma (Correct Answer)
- C. Osteoblastoma
- D. Chordoma
Explanation: ***Osteochondroma*** - **Osteochondroma** is the **most common benign bone tumor**, accounting for approximately 35-40% of all benign bone tumors [2]. - It arises from the growth plate and is characterized by a cartilage cap covering a bony stalk, typically affecting the **metaphysis** of long bones [1], [2]. *Bone cyst* - **Unicameral bone cysts** (simple bone cysts) and aneurysmal bone cysts are common benign bone lesions, but they are not true tumors. - They are typically fluid-filled lesions that can weaken the bone, predisposing to **pathological fractures**. *Osteoblastoma* - **Osteoblastoma** is a rare benign bone tumor, much less common than osteochondroma [3]. - It is characterized by the production of **osteoid** and **woven bone** and often causes pain due to its richly innervated nature [3]. *Chordoma* - **Chordoma** is a rare, malignant bone tumor, not benign. - It arises from remnants of the **notochord** and typically occurs at the sacrococcygeal region, skull base, or vertebral column. **References:** [1] Cross SS. Underwood's Pathology: A Clinical Approach. 6th ed. Common Clinical Problems From Osteoarticular And Connective Tissue Disease, pp. 672-673. [2] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Bones, Joints, and Soft Tissue Tumors, p. 1202. [3] Kumar V, Abbas AK, et al.. Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease. 9th ed. Bones, Joints, and Soft Tissue Tumors, p. 1200.
Question 8: A child 10 yrs of age presents with a mass on his left thigh. The mass seems to be arising from the diaphysis of the femur and involving the soft tissue of the thigh. The child is having fever also. Give your most probable diagnosis -
- A. Osteosarcoma
- B. Chondrosarcoma
- C. Ewing's sarcoma (Correct Answer)
- D. Malignant fibrous histiocytoma
Explanation: ***Ewing's sarcoma*** - **Ewing's sarcoma** commonly presents in children and adolescents, often involving the **diaphysis of long bones** like the femur. - The presence of a **soft tissue mass** and **fever** are characteristic systemic symptoms due to its aggressive nature and rapid growth. *Osteosarcoma* - While it is a common pediatric bone tumor, **osteosarcoma** typically arises in the **metaphysis** of long bones, not the diaphysis. - Systemic symptoms like fever are less common at presentation compared to Ewing's sarcoma unless there's significant metastatic disease. *Chondrosarcoma* - **Chondrosarcoma** is a malignant tumor of cartilage that usually affects older adults and rarely occurs in children. - It typically affects the **pelvis, shoulder, or long bones**, but a fever and involvement of the soft tissue with a diaphyseal origin are less classic presentation. *Malignant fibrous histiocytoma* - **Malignant fibrous histiocytoma** (now often termed undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma) is a tumor of adulthood, primarily affecting individuals over 40 years of age. - While it can involve deep soft tissues and bone, it is an extremely rare diagnosis in a 10-year-old child.
Question 9: Most common benign tumour during infancy is:
- A. Hemangioma (Correct Answer)
- B. Lymphangioma
- C. Lipoma
- D. Cystic hygroma
Explanation: ***Hemangioma*** - **Hemangiomas** are the most common benign vascular tumors of infancy, characterized by a rapid proliferative phase followed by spontaneous involution. - They are typically present at birth or manifest within the first few weeks of life, growing rapidly during the first year. *Lymphangioma* - **Lymphangiomas** are congenital malformations of the lymphatic system, less common than hemangiomas. - They are typically present at birth and do not demonstrate the same rapid proliferative and involuting phases seen with hemangiomas. *Lipoma* - **Lipomas** are benign tumors composed of mature fat cells and are relatively rare in infancy. - They typically present as soft, movable subcutaneous masses and grow slowly, usually appearing in older children or adults. *Cystic hygroma* - **Cystic hygromas** (lymphatic malformations) are a type of lymphangioma, usually presenting as large, multiloculated cysts, often in the head and neck region. - While congenital, they are distinct from hemangiomas and involve the lymphatic system, not blood vessels, and do not show the same initial rapid growth followed by involution.
Question 10: Most common intra abdominal solid organ tumor in child is ?
- A. Rhabdomyosarcoma
- B. Wilm's tumor (Correct Answer)
- C. Hypernephroma
- D. Neuroblastoma
Explanation: ***Wilms' tumor (Nephroblastoma)*** - **Wilms' tumor** is the **most common intra-abdominal solid organ tumor** in children and the **most common primary malignant renal tumor** in pediatric patients - It arises from embryonal kidney cells (metanephric blastema) and typically presents between **2-5 years of age** - Accounts for approximately **90% of pediatric renal tumors** and presents as an abdominal mass, often discovered incidentally - Associated with **WAGR syndrome** (Wilms, Aniridia, Genitourinary anomalies, Retardation) and **Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome** *Neuroblastoma* - While neuroblastoma is the **most common extracranial solid tumor** in children overall and the **most common tumor in infancy**, it is not the most common intra-abdominal solid organ tumor when compared to Wilms' tumor - Arises from neural crest cells in the adrenal medulla or sympathetic ganglia; about 65% occur in the abdomen - More common in children **under 2 years of age**, whereas Wilms' tumor predominates in the 2-5 year age group *Rhabdomyosarcoma* - **Rhabdomyosarcoma** is a malignant tumor of skeletal muscle origin and the **most common soft tissue sarcoma** in children - Can occur in the abdomen (especially genitourinary tract), but is not as common as Wilms' tumor in the intra-abdominal location - Typically presents in the head/neck region or genitourinary tract *Hypernephroma* - **Hypernephroma** (renal cell carcinoma) is the **most common kidney cancer in adults** but is **extremely rare in children** - Accounts for less than 5% of pediatric renal tumors, making it an unlikely answer for pediatric cases
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