CT and MRI features of tumors and tumor-like lesions in the abdominal wall

Abstract

Masses involving the abdominal wall are common in clinical practice and have many etiologies, including tumors and tumor-like lesions. Abdominal wall tumors include primary and secondary tumors, the former of which constitute a heterogeneous group of soft tissue tumors with their own unique spectrum. Tumor-like lesions, such as hernias, are more common and must be distinguished from true tumors. Medical imaging is valuable for discovering, diagnosing, and evaluating the extent of abdominal wall masses. With the increasing application of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), determining a diagnosis or narrowing the differential diagnosis is often possible, thus facilitating effective management. In this article, we comprehensively review the spectrum of common abdominal wall masses and present the CT and MRI features of typical cases in our hospital. A systematic stepwise diagnostic approach is also proposed for clinical practice.

Background

The abdomen is a very accessible part of the human body, and clinically accessible abdominal masses are particularly common. Some of these lesions arise from abdominal and pelvic organs, such as the liver, gallbladder, gastrointestinal tract, and ovaries, while others manifest in the abdominal wall itself. The abdominal wall anatomy is relatively superficial and hierarchical. The abdominal wall is divided into four major layers: the skin, superficial fascia, deep fascia and enveloped inner muscles, and the peritoneal fascia. A wide variety of masses are derived from the above structural layers, including both true tumors and tumor-like lesions. According to one cohort study, benign masses accounted for 57.8% and malignant masses accounted for 42.2% of these masses (1).

Because most abdominal wall lesions are superficial, ultrasound (US) is usually the preferred imaging modality by virtue of its convenience, economy, and high resolution, although the US is operator-dependent and can be problematic for deep and large lesions. The popularization of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), have led to their playing an increasingly important role and having great diagnostic value in modern medicine. MRI is widely considered the optimal imaging technique in the evaluation of soft tissue tumors (2). MRI provides high-resolution images of soft tissues, which can be imaged in any orientation. Basic sequences, such as T₁-weighted imaging (T₁WI), T₂-weighted imaging (T₂WI), and T₂WI with fat suppression (T₂WI/FS), and even diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and contrast-enhanced imaging, are generally required. CT has less advantage in the diagnosis of abdominal wall masses, but it can be used in a wide range of examinations to reveal relationships with adjacent vital structures and simultaneously help find distant sites of metastasis.

Remarkably, most abdominal wall masses can be easily detected by palpation or US, and biopsy can be used to obtain tissue for histological analysis. However, CT and MRI have advantages during presurgical planning due to their ability to determine the mass size, location, and relationship with adjacent anatomical structures. For some lesions, CT and MRI can detect pathognomonic signs, such as pure fluid, fat, blood products, phleboliths, and feeding or draining vessels. These imaging features and information on clinical characteristics are extremely valuable for presurgical diagnosis and can be a beneficial complement to biopsy results, which may be indefinite due to the sample location and size, especially in soft tissue tumors.

This article comprehensively reviews the CT and MRI features of common causes of abdominal wall masses based on our experience and relevant literature, including cases confirmed in our hospital. According to the traditional abdominal wall mass classification (1,3), lesions are often classified as benign tumors, malignant tumors, and tumor-like lesions (Table 1). However, in the new World Health Organization (WHO) classification of soft tissue tumors (4), some traditional benign or malignant tumors are classified as intermediate tumors (Table 2). Therefore, in this article, we review abdominal wall masses in a new classification of primary tumors, secondary tumors, and tumor-like lesions. Finally, we propose a systematic stepwise diagnostic approach for abdominal wall masses.

Table 1. Common masses in the abdominal wall according to traditional classification.

Benign tumors

Lipomas

Desmoid fibromatosis

Hemangiomas

Neurogenic tumors

Malignant tumors

Soft tissue sarcomas

Lymphomas

Metastases

Tumor-like lesions

Hernias

Endometriosis

Hematomas

Abscesses

Table 2. Common primary tumors in the abdominal wall according to WHO classification.

Classification	Character/behavior	Tumor
Adipocytic tumors	Benign	Lipomas
	Intermediate (locally aggressive)	Atypical lipomatous tumors/well-differentiated liposarcomas
	Malignant	Liposarcomas
Fibroblastic/myofibroblastic tumors	Intermediate (locally aggressive)	Desmoid-type fibromatosis
	Intermediate (rarely metastasizing)	Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
Vascular tumors	Benign	Hemangiomas
Nerve sheath tumors	Benign	Schwannomas
		Neurofibromas
	Malignant	Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors
Undifferentiated/unclassified Sarcomas	Malignant	Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas

Primary tumors in the abdominal wall

Primary tumors in the abdominal wall are almost all soft tissue tumors, except for cancer and melanoma derived from skin, which is easily identified by clinicians. Soft tissue tumors can occur at almost any site and represent a biologically diverse group of benign and malignant tumors. Abdominal wall soft tissue tumors account for approximately 10% of all soft tissue tumors (5). Compared with soft tissue lesions in other areas of the body, abdominal wall masses have both general and unique characteristics. Tables 2 and 3 show the most common soft tissue tumors in the abdominal wall according to the WHO classification and demonstrates the relatively unique spectrum and characteristics of these diseases, which we will introduce below.

Table 3. Key points of common tumor and tumor-like lesions in the abdominal wall.

Classification	Masses	Key points
Primary tumors	Lipomas	Pure fat signal; thin septation
	Liposarcomas	Complex fat signal
	Desmoid-type fibromatosis	Female of childbearing age; fascial tail sign; slow growing; T2 low signal region
	Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans	Confined within the skin
	Hemangiomas	Phleboliths; high T2 signal; progressive enhancement
	Benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors	Nerve-related; fusiform shape; target signs; split fat sign; myxoid areas
	Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors	Associated with type 1 neurofibromatosis; heterogeneous signal
	Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas	Infiltrating large masses; heterogeneous signal
Secondary tumors	Metastases	History of cancer; rapid growth; multiple masses
	Lymphomas	History of lymphoma; multiple nodes; high DWI signal; homogenous enhancement
Tumor-like lesions	Hernias	Contain content from the abdominal cavity
	Endometriosis	Female of childbearing age; history of uterine surgery; cyclical pain; blood products
	Hematomas	Trauma; anticoagulants; blood products
	Abscesses	Contain fluid; high DWI signal; rim enhancement

Adipocytic tumors

Lipomatous tumors are mesenchymal tumors composed of fat with varying differentiation and rate of components. Common lipomatous tumors include benign lipomas, intermediate atypical lipomatous tumors (ALTs)/well-differentiated liposarcomas (WDLs), and malignant liposarcomas. The differentiation of these tumors can range from mature adipose tissue histologically indistinguishable from normal subcutaneous fat to little or no microscopic adipocytic differentiation.

Lipomas

Lipomas are the most common soft tissue tumors, accounting for approximately 50% of all soft tissue tumors, and are the most common subcutaneous neoplasms (6-9). Lipomas occur most commonly in adults and are more common in obese patients (8). Lipomas are also regarded as the most common tumors affecting the abdominal wall (10). Abdominal wall lipomas are usually painless and present as mobile superficial masses.

Classically, lipomas are soft tissue masses with a homogeneous mature adipose tissue density or signal on CT or MRI (Figure 1). Thin fibrous septa less than 2 mm in thickness are sometimes seen (8,9,11). The thin septa can be enhanced after contrast administration, which is more advantageous with MRI than with CT (12). Occasionally, superficial, simple lipomas may be difficult to distinguish from adjacent adipose tissue.

Figure 1.

A left anterior abdominal wall subcutaneous lipoma in a 29-year-old male. (A) Axial contrast-enhanced CT is displaying a dense fat mass in the subcutaneous tissue of the left abdominal wall with a thin capsule and fibrous septa; (B,C) axial T₁WI and coronal T₂WI displaying a mass with the same T₁ and T₂ signals as fat, with a low-signal, thin capsule, and septa (arrow); (D) axial T₂WI with fat suppression displaying a markedly decreased signal from the lesion, with a high-signal, thin capsule, and septa (arrow). T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging.

ALTs/WDLs

Apart from location, ALTs and WDLs are synonymous with each other and exhibit intermediate behavior. ALTs are usually subcutaneous lesions in the extremities, where they can be readily resected. Additionally, these tumors are not as threatening as WDLs occurring in deeper locations. ALTs/WDLs represent the most common liposarcomas, accounting for approximately 50% of all liposarcomas (13).

On CT and MRI, ALTs/WDLs typically have a relatively characteristic appearance of predominantly adipose masses containing nonlipomatous components (14-20). Distinguishing ALTs/WDLs from benign lipoma can be challenging and often requires histological evaluation. Imaging features suggesting an ALT/WDL or liposarcoma include tumor heterogeneity, thickened or irregular nodular septa (generally more than 2-mm thick), nodular soft tissue or nonadipose components, and incomplete fat suppression with linear or nodular hyperintense areas on MRI (9,12,19-22) (Figure 2).

Figure 2.

A well-differentiated liposarcoma in the left anterior abdominal wall of a 48-year-old female. (A,B,C) Axial T₁WI, T₂WI and T₂WI with fat suppression showing a heterogeneous, predominantly adipose mass containing nonlipomatous components with a low signal on T₁WI and a high signal on T₂WI; (D) Coronal T₁WI image after contrast agent injection showing a thick capsule and enhancement of the nonlipomatous components (arrow). T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging.

Liposarcomas

Liposarcomas are the second most common soft tissue sarcomas, accounting for 10–35% of all soft tissue sarcomas (13). Liposarcomas show the most striking diversity in pathological and biological behavior and can be categorized into several subtypes, including dedifferentiated, myxoid, pleomorphic, and mixed (23). The imaging findings of liposarcomas are frequently distinct. On CT and MRI, focal or diffuse areas of fat associated with nonlipomatous components are commonly detected, and the diagnosis can be easily determined in these cases. However, the diagnosis is not achievable in other cases without fatty tissue in the lesions (Figure 3). MRI is useful for distinguishing well-differentiated from poorly differentiated liposarcomas (11).

Figure 3.

A myxoid liposarcoma in the left posterior abdominal wall of a 66-year-old female. (A) Axial contrast-enhanced CT displaying a soft tissue mass. (B,C,D) Axial CT, in-phase T₁WI, out-phase T₁WI, and T₂WI with fat suppression displaying a nonlipomatous mass with a low signal on T₁WI and a high signal on T₂WI with fat suppression. The small area shows a high signal on in-phase T₁WI, and the low signal on out-phase T₁WI may represent a small area of fat (arrow). (E) Axial T₁WI after contrast agent injection showing heterogeneous enhancement. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging.

Fibroblastic/myofibroblastic tumors

Fibroblastic/myofibroblastic tumors constitute a large heterogeneous group of neoplastic lesions in clinical practice and occur in patients of all ages. This paper describes the two most common tumors occurring in the abdominal wall.

Desmoid-type fibromatosis

Desmoid-type fibromatosis is a relatively rare fibroblastic proliferative disease, previously referred to as aggressive fibromatosis or desmoid tumors. These tumors do not metastasize, but relapse can easily occur after surgical treatment. In some studies, desmoid-type fibromatosis has been described as the most common soft tissue tumor in the abdominal wall (1,24); however, this may be because lipomas are not usually treated surgically and were excluded from the analysis. Typically, these tumors occur in young females aged 20 to 40 years, more frequently during the first year after childbirth (25). Arising from the aponeurosis of the abdominal wall muscle, desmoid fibromatosis usually occurs in the anterior abdominal wall and is usually located in the rectus abdominis, the internal oblique muscles, and the surrounding fascia. Due to the distinct location and tendency of these lesions to develop in women of childbearing age, they can usually be distinguished from other forms of deep desmoid-type fibromatosis.

On CT, desmoid-type fibromatosis usually appears as a round or oval, nonspecific soft tissue mass with a density similar to that of muscle. Generally, it does not grow across the midline and is significantly enhanced after contrast injection. It shows low-to-intermediate signal intensity (SI) on T₁WI and high SI on T₂WI. Internal band-like findings of low signal heterogeneity on all sequences are relatively distinct on MRI (Figure 4). These low-SI bands are common (62–91% of cases) in desmoid-type fibromatosis compared with other neoplastic lesions and are related to the collagenized and hypocellular band regions observed on gross pathological examination, representing fibrous and collagenized regions (26,27). Extension along fascial planes (i.e., the “fascial tail” sign) adds specificity for the diagnosis (Figure 3) (24,28). MRI is optimal for detecting deep intra-abdominal extension that, although unusual, is important for guiding complete surgical resection. High SI on T₂WI has been shown to correlate with greater cellularity and an increased recurrence rate (29).

Figure 4.

A desmoid-type fibromatosis in a 28-year-old female. (A) Axial T₁WI, (B) T₂WI, and (C) DWI revealing a lesion in the right oblique abdominal wall, with isointensity on T₁WI and hyperintensity on T₂WI along with mixed internal heterogeneity. (D) Contrast-enhanced MRI revealing intense enhancement. Areas with low T₂ signals (arrow) correspond to fibrosis, whereas areas with high T₂ signals correspond to increased cellularity. The combination of low-signal bands within the lesion and at the lesion margins extending into the surrounding fascia (the “fascial tail” sign) is considered to indicate desmoid-type fibromatosis. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging; DWI, diffusion-weighted imaging.

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP)

DFSP is a relatively uncommon sarcoma that arises from the dermis but is considered the most common mesenchymal cutaneous malignancy. The trunk is the most common site of DFSP involvement, and DFSP accounts for approximately 20% of all abdominal wall sarcomas (1). DFSP is a low-grade, locally aggressive tumor with low metastatic potential. Local recurrence has been observed in 20–55% of cases and metastases have been observed in less than 5% of cases (30). DFSP is more common in adults between 20 and 50 years, with no sex bias.

On imaging, DFSP typically presents as a well-circumscribed, multinodular, noncalcified solid mass arising from the skin and extending into subcutaneous tissue with moderate enhancement (30-33) (Figure 5). On CT, the attenuation is similar to that of muscle. On MRI, DFSP often appears isointense compared to muscle on T₁WI scans, homogeneous with high SI on T₂WI scans, and avid enhanced on contrast-enhanced images. Although the intrinsic SI or attenuation is nonspecific, linear extension along the skin surface is suggestive of the diagnosis (34). More importantly, imaging can help delineate the extent of the lesion and detect satellite nodules for accurate preoperative assessment.

Figure 5.

A dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans in the right anterior abdominal wall of a 57-year-old male. (A) Axial contrast-enhanced CT displaying a soft tissue protuberant nodule at the skin surface and extending into subcutaneous tissue. (B) Axial T₂WI with fat suppression and (C) DWI showing a uniform, high-signal nodule. (D) Sagittal T₁WI after intravenous administration of gadolinium showing marked enhancement. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging; DWI, diffusion-weighted imaging.

Vascular tumors

Vascular tumors are very common soft tissue masses, particularly in young patients in the first three decades of life, and are frequently confused with other neoplastic masses both clinically and radiologically (34,35). The most common superficial vascular tumors are hemangiomas, which are benign lesions.

Hemangiomas

Hemangiomas are heterogeneous and can be histologically classified as capillary, cavernous, arteriovenous, or venous by the predominant type of vascular channels identified within the lesion. Therefore, the radiological appearance of hemangiomas also varies, causing them to be frequently confused with other neoplastic masses when the imaging results are atypical.

CT often shows a poorly defined nodule or mass with attenuation similar to that of skeletal muscle in nonenhanced imaging, and marked enhancement of the serpentine vascular components may be observed after intravenous administration of contrast medium. Moreover, CT is the most sensitive modality for identifying calcifications and phleboliths in the lesions, which are characteristic of hemangiomas (36). MRI often shows low-to-intermediate SI on T₁WI scans and very high SI on T₂WI scans (37). Hemangiomas typically show prominent progressive enhancement after intravenous administration of gadolinium (Figure 6).

Figure 6.

A hemangioma in the right abdominal wall of a 57-year-old male. (A) Axial T₁WI and (B) T₂WI with fat suppression showing subcutaneous diffuse lesions with heterogeneous low T₁ and high T₂ signals. (C,D) Axial contrast-enhanced T₁WI in different phases showing heterogeneous enhancement with progressive enhancement over time. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging.

Nerve sheath tumors

Nerve sheath tumors are also very common soft tissue tumors that arise from the nerves. Most nerve sheath tumors are benign.

Benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs)

Benign PNSTs can appear as well-defined, smooth-bordered, fusiform masses that are aligned along a nerve. On CT, they typically show lower attenuation than muscle and strong enhancement. They are typically isointense compared with muscle on T₁WI and slightly hyperintense compared to fat on T₂WI. The “split fat sign” is associated with benign PNSTs; as a tumor grows, a surrounding rim of normal fat is maintained (38) (Figure 7). In some cases, a “target sign” appearance may be observed on T₂WI; the central low T₂ SI histologically corresponds to fibrocollagenous tissue, whereas the outer high T₂ SI corresponds to myxomatous tissue (39) (Figure 7).

Figure 7.

Benign peripheral nerve sheath tumors. (A,B,C) A schwannoma in the right abdominal wall of a 57-year-old male. (A) Sagittal T₂WI with fat suppression showing a heterogeneous, hyperintense nodule in the intramuscular space. (B) Sagittal and (C) coronal T₁WI after intravenous administration of gadolinium showing obvious peripheral enhancement. The central high T₂ signal and the nonenhanced component may represent myxoid areas. A surrounding rim of normal fat is maintained (arrow) (the “split fat sign”). (D,E) Neurofibromas in a 26-year-old male. (D) Axial and (E) coronal T₂WI with fat suppression showing multiple extensive hyperintense subcutaneous nodules in the abdominal wall. The “target sign” can be clearly observed in a larger nodule, with a central area of low T₂ signals and an outer area of high T₂ signals. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging.

Schwannomas and neurofibromas are the two main types of benign PNSTs, and they are difficult to distinguish on imaging (39,40). The histological hallmark of schwannomas is the presence of Antoni A and Antoni B regions. Antoni A areas are hypercellular and composed of spindle cells, while Antoni B regions are hypocellular, contain more myxoid tissue, and have a high water content (41,42). Large schwannomas commonly undergo degenerative changes, including cyst formation, calcification, hemorrhage, and fibrosis (43). Therefore, myxoid areas with high T₂ SI and degenerative regions are more common in schwannomas than in neurofibromas. However, “target signs” are more common in neurofibromas than in schwannomas (44). Occasionally, a schwannoma can be distinguished from a neurofibroma by its location relative to a nerve; schwannomas may be eccentrically adjacent to and separable from the nerve, whereas a neurofibroma may be integrated with the nerve (45).

Malignant PNSTs

Malignant PNSTs are uncommon soft tissue sarcomas accounting for up to 5% of all soft tissue sarcomas, and they are associated with type 1 neurofibromatosis in most cases (46-48). Malignant PNSTs can also be difficult to differentiate from benign PNSTs. Imaging features suggestive of malignancy include rapid growth, large size (>5 cm), infiltrative margins, prominent vascularity or enhancement, marked heterogeneity with central necrosis, and hemorrhage (Figure 8). There are no specific imaging features that distinguish malignant PNSTs from other high-grade sarcomas, except possible origin from a large nerve.

Figure 8.

A malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in a 19-year-old female with a history of neurofibroma. (A) Axial CT showing a large (>5 cm) mass with heterogeneous attenuation in the left posterior abdominal wall. (B,C,D) Axial T₁WI, T₂WI with fat suppression, and contrast-enhanced T₁WI showing heterogeneous signal and enhancement, a central necrosis/hemorrhage signal, and the fluid level. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging.

Undifferentiated/unclassified sarcomas

Sarcomas of the abdomen account for approximately 5% of all sarcomas (1). Only soft tissue sarcomas show no definite histological differentiation and are classified as undifferentiated/unclassified sarcomas. Most of these lesions are undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas (UPSs), previously called malignant fibrous histiocytomas.

UPSs

UPSs are the most common soft tissue sarcomas occurring late in adult life and account for approximately 20% of all soft tissue sarcomas. UPSs are the most common sarcomas that develop at sites of prior irradiation (49).

Nonspecifically, UPSs appear as well-circumscribed, multinodular, or infiltrating large soft tissue masses that invade adjacent anatomical structures. On CT, UPSs demonstrate attenuation similar to that of muscle, with areas of decreased attenuation frequently apparent centrally within the mass corresponding to myxoid regions or necrosis (50). MRI often shows heterogeneous SI on all pulse sequences depending on the amounts of collagen, myxoid tissue, necrosis, and hemorrhage (Figure 9). Solid components of UPSs typically show enhancement after intravenous administration of a contrast agent (51).

Figure 9.

An undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma in a 61-year-old male. (A) Axial T₁WI and (B) T₂WI with fat suppression displaying a mass of fusiform shape in the right front abdominal wall with a heterogeneous low T₁ signal and high T₂ signal. (C) Axial T₁WI and (D) coronal T₁WI after intravenous administration of gadolinium showing heterogeneous enhancement in the mass. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging.

Secondary tumors in the abdominal wall

Secondary tumors in the abdominal wall refer to malignant tumors that reach the abdominal wall by direct invasion, metastasis, or implantation from other sites. In a cohort study, 41.6% of malignant masses were secondary cancers, and 3.2% were malignant hematolymphoid tumors, such as lymphomas (1).

Metastases

Metastases are the most common malignant lesions encountered in the anterior abdominal wall. The imaging characteristics of abdominal wall metastases are nonspecific, but they often resemble the known primary disease in other sites. The single most consistent discriminating feature is the rapid growth of lesions in a known cancer patient, who is usually at an advanced stage and has multiple other metastases. Metastasis of the umbilicus is known as Sister Mary Joseph’s nodule and typically originates from cancers of the gastrointestinal tract and ovary (52-54). The proposed metastasis route of Sister Mary Joseph’s nodule is along with the remnant structures at the umbilicus (55,56). Metastasis to the surgical wound or laparoscopic trocar site and needle-tract seeding after radiofrequency ablation also lead to the formation of abdominal wall metastases (Figure 10). These specific metastases may not be associated with widespread disease in contrast to hematogenous abdominal wall metastases.

Figure 10.

A laparoscopic trocar site metastasis confirmed by resection in a 46-year-old man with a colon cancer history. (A) Ultrasound and (B) axial contrast-enhanced CT of the pelvis revealing a heterogeneously enhanced metastatic deposit (arrow) in the left anterior abdominal pelvic wall at the site of trocar insertion during the previous laparoscopic colon cancer surgery.

Lymphomas

Lymphomas may involve the skin, subcutaneous tissues, and muscles of the abdominal wall by contiguous extension or as isolated nodules. Lymphomas on CT or MRI often appear as multiple nodules with relatively homogeneous density or SI. The lesions also show homogeneous and moderate enhancement after administration of a contrast agent. On DWI, lymphomas have a hyperintense signal; i.e., the lesions have a lower apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), which represents restricted free diffusion of water molecules (Figure 11). This restriction is likely because lymphomas have high cellularity and large abnormal nuclei and are therefore observed as more densely packed tissue (57). The diagnosis is primarily based on diffuse or systemic involvement.

Figure 11.

A diffuse lymphoma of the anterior abdominal wall of a 56-year-old man. (A) Axial T₁WI and (B) T₂WI with fat suppression revealing multiple subcutaneous nodules and masses with relatively homogeneous low T₁ and high T₂ signals characteristic of lymphoma. (C) Contrast-enhanced T₁WI showing moderate enhancement. (D) DWI showing a hyperintense signal, indicating that the lesion has a lower ADC. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging; DWI, diffusion-weighted imaging; ADC, apparent diffusion coefficient.

Tumor-like lesions in the abdominal wall

“Tumor-like lesions” in the musculoskeletal system can be defined as lesions mistaken as tumors due to the presence of palpation upon physical examination or a tumor-mimicking appearance upon radiological examination (58). As the common tumor-like lesions in the abdominal wall, hernias, endometriosis, hematomas, and abscesses usually have a characteristic appearance both clinically and on cross-sectional imaging, particularly on MRI, thus facilitating diagnosis. In some difficult or atypical cases, biopsy or follow-up is recommended.

Hernias

Hernias are actually the most common “masses” in the abdominal wall, and unlike tumors or other tumor-like lesions, they may develop acute complications requiring emergent surgery. Common abdominal wall hernias include upper abdominal wall hernias, lateral abdominal wall hernias (also known as meniscuses), umbilical hernias, and inguinal hernias, with the latter being the most common. Inguinal hernias can be oblique or direct hernias. In oblique hernias, the hernial sac enters the scrotum from the inguinal canal outside the inferior abdominal artery. In direct hernias, the hernial sac protrudes from the “inguinal triangle” or “Hesselbach triangle” on the medial side of the inferior abdominal artery.

Although the clinical diagnosis of abdominal hernias is relatively easy, CT or MRI can help distinguish between abdominal hernias and abdominal or abdominal wall tumors by showing the herniation of fat or intestines through the fascial defect, in addition to complications of intestinal fistulas, such as ischemia and obstruction (59). As an interesting finding in our routine work, CT can be used to identify the inferior epigastric artery and can help distinguish oblique and direct hernias, which is important for surgery (Figure 12).

Figure 12.

Inguinal hernias. (A,B,C) An indirect hernia in the left lateral abdominal wall of a 68-year-old man. (A) Axial contrast-enhanced CT, (B) contrast-enhanced T₁WI, and (C) coronal contrast-enhanced CT showing the inguinal oblique hernia. The hernial sac was on the lateral side of the inferior epigastric artery (arrow) and herniated into the left scrotum. (D,E) A direct hernia in the left lateral abdominal wall of a 65-year-old woman. (D) Oblique axial contrast-enhanced CT and (E) coronal contrast-enhanced CT showing the direct inguinal hernia. The hernial sac was on the medial side of the inferior epigastric artery (arrow). T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging.

Endometriosis

The anterior abdominal wall is the most common site of extrapelvic endometriosis, which usually develops in a cesarean section scar, with a wide range of reported incidence rates of 0.03–3.5% (60). The most plausible cause of scar endometriosis is implantation of endometrial stem cells at the surgical site at the time of uterine surgery. Anterior wall endometriosis in patients with no prior surgeries is rare (61). Abdominal wall endometriomas are often the only manifestation of endometriosis with no associated pelvic endometriosis. The typical presentation is a female patient with cyclical pain from a mass in scar tissue (62).

The appearance of abdominal wall endometriosis on CT and MRI depends on the phase of the patient’s menstrual cycle, the chronicity of the process, the number of stromal and glandular elements, and the amounts of bleeding and associated inflammation (63). On CT, anterior abdominal wall endometriosis typically appears as a solid soft tissue mass that is hyperattenuated compared with muscle, although the attenuation can vary and be nonspecific. On MRI, it typically presents as a solid mass that is mildly hyperintense on both T₁WI and T₂WI as a result of subacute hemorrhage within the endometriotic crypts, although this finding may also vary (Figure 13). Mild to moderate contrast enhancement is present (60).

Figure 13.

Anterior abdominal wall endometriosis in a 28-year-old woman with a history of cesarean section who presented with persistent cyclical pain symptoms. (A) Axial T₁WI, (B) T₁WI with fat suppression, (C) sagittal T₂WI and (D) axial T₂WI with fat suppression revealing an irregular, heterogeneous, nodular lesion in the region of the surgical scar. Focal areas of hyperintensity on both T₁WI and T₁WI with fat suppression (arrow) are present, representing hemorrhage foci. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging.

Hematomas

Anterior abdominal wall hematomas usually occur in the rectus abdominis muscle and result from damage, such as a trauma or surgical intervention, to the superior or inferior epigastric arteries or direct tearing of the rectus muscle. Other uncommon reasons are clotting deficiency or anticoagulant treatment. Hematomas in the absence of trauma or after light trauma are usually difficult to distinguish from tumors with hemorrhage in clinical practice, and contrast-enhanced MRI will facilitate the differential diagnosis (64).

Hematomas present as well-defined, hyperdense rectus masses on unenhanced CT and may show active contrast extravasation on enhanced CT. Their appearance on MRI depends on the stage of the hemorrhage. Deoxyhemoglobin in the acute stage manifests as iso- or hypointense areas on T₁WI and T₂WI. Methemoglobin in the subacute stage often produces high SI in the form of a peripheral rim, which is a very useful diagnostic factor (Figure 14). In the chronic phase, the dark hemosiderin rim on T₁WI and T₂WI is a useful discriminating feature (1). CT and MRI help achieve an accurate diagnosis and can be used to evaluate the extent of a hematoma and the presence of active bleeding (3).

Figure 14.

An intramuscular hematoma in the left front abdominal wall of a 40-year-old man. (A) Axial T₁WI, (B) T₂WI with fat suppression, and (C) sagittal T₂WI revealing high signals, indicating the presence of methemoglobin. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; T₂WI, T₂-weighted imaging.

Abscesses

Abscess, a focal collection of pus confined to a specific space, can manifest as a palpable mass (6). Anterior abdominal wall abscesses usually occur postoperatively or secondary to an infected hematoma. Rarely, primary fungal or tubercular abscesses may appear in the muscles or soft tissues of the anterior abdominal wall (3). An abscess is usually indicated by the patient’s clinical history and inflammatory skin changes, like erythema and warmth.

The imaging appearance of a soft tissue abscess varies during the process of abscess formation. A mature abscess can contain sufficient internal suppuration, which shows lower fluid density similar to that of fluid on CT. On MRI, the SI varies depending on the amounts of internal proteinaceous debris and necrosis. The increased concentration of protein in the suppuration can result in a high T₁WI signal. On DWI, abscesses have very hyperintense signals, indicating restricted diffusion of water molecules in the suppuration (Figure 15). The wall of an abscess shows a thick peripheral rim of enhancement after intravenous administration of a contrast agent. Abscesses should be differentiated from myxomatous tumors, such as intramuscular myxomas and myxoid sarcomas, because their high water content and myxoid material both appear hyperintense on T₂WI, mimicking cyst-like lesions. However, myxomatous tumors usually demonstrate internal enhancement. In addition, abscesses may be associated with surrounding diffuse inflammation (65).

Figure 15.

An abscess in the left lateral abdominal wall of a 44-year-old woman. (A) Axial CT showing a low-density, subcutaneous mass in the left lateral abdominal wall; (B) on DWI, the abscess has a very hyperintense signal, which represents restricted diffusion of water molecules in the suppuration; (C) axial contrast-enhanced T₁WI showing a peripheral rim of enhancement and diffuse inflammation surrounding the nodule after intravenous administration of a contrast agent. T₁WI, T₁-weighted imaging; DWI, diffusion-weighted imaging.

Key points and stepwise diagnostic approach

We summarize the clinical and imaging characterizations of these abdominal wall masses into diagnostic key points in Table 3. In this article, we also propose a practical, systematic stepwise diagnostic approach combining clinical history and imaging appearances, with additional reference to the prevalence of these masses (Table 4). The approach is intended to evaluate abdominal wall masses encountered in daily clinical practice and to highlight some key questions to ask. It should be noted that this stepwise diagnostic approach is based on clinical experience, and the accuracy may be verified in further research. In addition, some abdominal wall masses still remain indeterminate due to the heterogeneous disease spectrum and the lack of characterization. Imaging sometimes even provides a limited capacity to reliably distinguish between benign and malignant lesions. Therefore, a biopsy should be strongly considered for indeterminate masses.

Table 4. Stepwise evaluation of common tumor and tumor-like lesions in the abdominal wall.

Approach	Points to consider in question	Answer	Lesions to consider
Step 1	Does the mass contain content from the abdominal cavity?	Yes	Hernias
		No	Step 2
Step 2	Does the mass contain fat?	Yes	Lipomatous tumors
		No	Step 3
Step 3	Is the patient a female of child-bearing age?	Yes	Desmoid fibromatosis; endometriosis
		No	Step 4
Step 4	Does the mass contain phleboliths and progressive enhancement?	Yes	Hemangiomas
		No	Step 5
Step 5	Is there evidence of blood product?	Yes	Hematomas
		No	Step 6
Step 6	Does the mass have fluid?	Yes	Abscesses; myxomatous tumors
		No	Step 7
Step 7	Does the mass have a nerve-related abnormality?	Yes	Nerve sheath tumors
		No	Step 8
Step 8	Is there a history of malignancy?	Yes	Metastases; lymphomas
		No	Step 9
Step 9	Does the mass derive from skin?	Yes	Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
		No	Other primary sarcomas

Conclusions

In summary, an abdominal mass is a common clinical presentation. Although abdominal wall tumors and tumor-like lesions have multiple possible diagnoses, in most cases, an accurate diagnosis can be achieved, or the scope of the differential diagnosis can be narrowed by combined assessment of clinical and imaging features. However, a few types of masses still require diagnosis by pathology.