Soft tissue sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that develops in the soft tissues of the body, such as muscles, bones, deep layers of skin, fat, blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissues. Although these cancers account for less than 1% of all cancer cases, there are dozens of different types that can affect both children and adults. Approximately 13,000 people are diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma each year.
The exact causes of soft tissue sarcoma are not well understood, but certain factors may increase your risk of developing this type of cancer:
Family history of inherited diseases like neurofibromatosis and Gardner syndrome
Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic, vinyl chloride, or dioxin
Previous radiation therapy for other types of cancer
The most common symptom of soft tissue sarcoma is a painless lump or growth. However, some tumors may not be noticeable until they grow large enough to press on nearby muscles or nerves. Other symptoms may include:
Stomach pain, bleeding, or a blocked intestine (for sarcomas in the belly)
Chest pain or difficulty breathing (for sarcomas in the lungs or chest)
Lumps or growths on the head or neck (especially in children with rhabdomyosarcoma)
If you notice a growing lump, persistent stomach pain, bloody stool, or vomiting blood, consult your doctor for further evaluation.
If your doctor suspects soft tissue sarcoma, they may recommend the following tests:
Physical examination to assess lumps or bumps
Imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRI scans
Biopsy to examine a tissue sample under a microscope
Based on the test results, your doctor will determine the stage of the cancer (I through IV), which indicates the size of the tumor and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Treatment for soft tissue sarcoma depends on the location and stage of the cancer. The primary treatment options include:
Surgery is usually the first step in treating soft tissue sarcoma. Doctors aim to remove the tumor and any affected lymph nodes while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. In some cases, tissue reconstruction or limb amputation may be necessary.
Chemotherapy uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be administered through an IV or as pills. Chemotherapy is often used in combination with surgery, especially if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy particles or X-rays to destroy cancer cells. External beam therapy is the most common method, where a machine directs radiation at the affected area. Radiation therapy may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
For more information on soft tissue sarcoma, visit the following reputable sources:
A soft tissue sarcoma diagnosis can be emotionally and physically challenging. It's essential to have a strong support system, whether it's through family, friends, or support groups. Communicating openly with your healthcare team about your concerns and treatment options can help you make informed decisions and maintain a positive outlook throughout your journey.
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