A sarcoma is a form of cancer that can appear anywhere in an individual’s body. The word sarcoma is an umbrella term for a broad group of cancers that have their origins in the bones and in the soft tissues (soft tissue sarcoma). The soft tissue includes blood vessels, nerves, tendons, muscles, fat, fibrous tissue, the lower layers of the skin, and the lining of the joints.
It is not yet fully known the exact cause of soft tissue sarcoma. However, there are factors that may increase the risk of developing sarcoma. These include:
The following tests and procedures are used to diagnose sarcoma as well as to determine its extent:
Sarcoma is a type of cancer that develops in the connective tissues of the body, such as the bones, muscles, and cartilage.
Risk factors for sarcoma can include exposure to radiation, certain genetic conditions, and a history of previous cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Symptoms of sarcoma can include persistent pain, swelling or a lump in the affected area, and unexplained weight loss. Diagnosis may involve imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans, biopsy, or blood tests.
Treatment for sarcoma may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these depending on the type and stage of the cancer and the individual patient's needs. Other treatments such as targeted therapy or immunotherapy may also be used for certain types of sarcoma. Treatment plans are developed by a team of medical professionals with expertise in sarcoma, and may include specialists such as orthopedic surgeons or radiation oncologists.