Sarcoma-A rare forgotten cancer

Verified by Dr. Tejinder Singh, Consultant Medical Oncology, Apollo Hospitals, Navi Mumbai

Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates in the connective tissues of the body, which include muscles, bones, cartilage, tendons, blood vessels, and fatty tissues. Sarcomas can develop in any part of the body but are commonly found in the arms, legs, and abdomen. They are divided into two main categories based on the tissue they arise from: soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas.

• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Soft tissue sarcomas develop in the soft, supportive tissues of the body. They can arise from muscles, fat, blood vessels, nerves, or other tissues. Soft tissue sarcomas can occur at any age, but they are more commonly diagnosed in adults. Examples of soft tissue sarcomas include leiomyosarcoma, liposarcoma, and synovial sarcoma.
• Bone Sarcomas: Bone sarcomas, as the name suggests, originate in the bones. These tumors can affect both children and adults, but they are more prevalent in adolescents and young adults. Two primary types of bone sarcomas are osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma.

Sarcomas can be challenging to diagnose because they are relatively rare and can resemble other benign conditions or more common cancers. Some common symptoms of sarcomas may include a painless lump or swelling, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and occasionally, pain at the site of the tumor.

Cause of sarcoma

The exact cause of sarcomas is often unknown, but certain risk factors have been identified, including genetic predisposition, exposure to radiation therapy, and certain inherited syndromes such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome or neurofibromatosis.

Treatment for sarcoma

Treatment for sarcoma depends on various factors, including the type, stage, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health. The mainstay of treatment often involves surgery to remove the tumor, which may be followed by radiation therapy to target any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, chemotherapy or targeted therapy drugs may also be used to shrink the tumor or prevent its recurrence.

Because sarcomas are relatively rare and complex, specialized centers with experience in treating these types of cancers are often involved in providing the best care for sarcoma patients. Early detection and timely treatment are crucial for better outcomes in sarcoma cases. Regular medical check-ups and prompt evaluation of any concerning symptoms can aid in early diagnosis and appropriate management.

Connect with our medical oncology expert, Dr. Tejinder Singh, for queries & consultation for sarcoma.