Askin Tumor

Askin tumors are primitive neuroectodermal tumors of the Ewing sarcoma family of tumors (ESFT) that arise in the soft tissues of the chest wall, but can also arise in bone, and (rarely) in the periphery of the lung. Patients are usually young and female. There is evidence of metastatic disease at presentation in 10%-40% of cases.

On imaging, the tumors can be large and have both intrathoracic and extrathoracic components, with tumor extension to the pleura with associated effusion being a frequent occurrence. Destruction of adjacent anatomic structures can also be seen.

CT reveals a heterogeneous lesion with evidence of rapid growth (large size, destruction of adjacent structures, etc). T2-weighted images reveal heterogeneously increased signal intensity representing focal areas of hemorrhage or necrosis. Small tumors can be more homogeneous.

References

Winer-Muram HT, Kauffman WM, Gronemeyer SA, Jennings SG. Primitive neuroectodermal tumors of the chest wall (Askin tumors): CT and MR findings. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 1993 Aug;161(2):265-8.