Tumors and tumor-like lesions of the foot and ankle: Diagnosis and treatment

Abstract

Bone and soft tissue tumors of the foot and ankle are not rare in the foot specialist’s practice. Although masses are usually seen early with early symptoms due to compact anatomy with thin soft tissue coverage (e.g., pain on weight-bearing), diagnosis is often delayed. Diagnostic errors are more common than in other regions, since neoplasia is often not considered. Tumor size is a major prognostic factor for recurrence-free survival, and delayed diagnosis finally results in undertreatment or overtreatment with serious consequences. Thus, if early diagnosis is compelled, prognosis is generally improved.