Oncologische Heelkunde / Surgical Oncology : 04. The subject of this book is the diagnosis and primary treatment of lipomatous tumors, the most frequent soft tissue tumors in adults. This makes it unique as no other book on this topic is currently available. The subject is treated in a multidisciplinary approach and developed in a logical order from basic knowledge to diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. The actual histologic classification is presented and its modifications illustrated. Several specific chromosomal abnormalities have been discovered recently and already two genes involved in myxoid liposarcoma and lipoma have been identified. The clinical spectrum of these tumors is covered and their radiological diagnosis by CT scan and MRI is well illustrated. A new topographical approach to abdominal liposarcoma is presented. The role of biopsy and the problem of surgical margins at resection is discussed against the general background of sarcoma surgery. Surgical experience with lipomatous tumors localized beneath the muscle fascia on limbs and trunk and in the retroperitoneum is analyzed in detail. The role of adjuvant radiotherapy in the treqtment of liposarcoma is critically examined and a review on prognosis is presented as well as a follow-up scheme for each histologic type. This book contains very valuable information for surgeons, radiologists, oncologists, radiotherapists and scientists with a special interest in soft tissue tumors.