Are mesenteric and omental soft tissue nodules consistent with sarcoma?

The differential diagnosis for mesenteric and omental soft tissue nodules includes a wide range of entities, both neoplastic and non-neoplastic. While sarcoma is certainly one possibility, it is important to consider other potential causes as well. Some of the key considerations include:

- Inflammatory conditions: Mesenteric and omental nodules can be caused by a variety of inflammatory conditions, such as mesenteric panniculitis, Crohn's disease, and diverticulitis. These conditions can cause thickening and inflammation of the mesentery and omentum, leading to the formation of nodules.

- Lipomatous lesions: Lipomas are benign fatty tumors that can occur in the mesentery and omentum. They are typically well-circumscribed and have a soft, yellow appearance.

- Lymph nodes: Mesenteric and omental nodules can also represent enlarged lymph nodes. This can occur in response to infection, inflammation, or malignancy.

- Vascular lesions: Hemangiomas and lymphangiomas are benign vascular tumors that can occur in the mesentery and omentum. They are typically well-circumscribed and have a red or blue appearance.

- Malignant lesions: In addition to sarcoma, other malignant lesions that can occur in the mesentery and omentum include carcinomatosis, lymphoma, and metastatic disease. These lesions can have a variable appearance and may be associated with other symptoms, such as abdominal pain, weight loss, or fatigue.

Given the wide range of possible causes, it is important to perform a thorough evaluation to determine the nature of mesenteric and omental soft tissue nodules. This may involve imaging studies, such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI, as well as biopsy or surgical excision for tissue diagnosis.