CT Detection of Skeletal Muscle Metastases

Abstract

The CT appearance of skeletal muscle metastases, proven by biopsy, is presented in a series of 11 patients. Primary sites of neoplasm included chest, head and neck, breast, esophagus, uterus, ovary, prostate, and lymph nodes. Computed tomographic guided biopsies were performed in seven patients and four patients underwent open biopsy. The CT findings consisted primarily of muscle enlargement with the masses containing low density and loss of normal fat and vascular planes. Invasion of adjacent bony structures was occasionally observed.