Soft-tissue sarcoma

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Soft-tissue sarcoma is a type of cancer that begins in the tissues that connect, support, and surround other body structures. This includes muscles, fat, blood vessels, nerves, tendons, and the lining of the joints. Soft-tissue sarcomas are relatively rare and can occur in any part of the body, but they most commonly affect the arms, legs, and trunk.

Types

There are many different types of soft-tissue sarcomas, classified based on the type of tissue they originate from. Some of the most common types include:

• Liposarcoma: Originates in fat cells.
• Leiomyosarcoma: Originates in smooth muscle cells.
• Rhabdomyosarcoma: Originates in skeletal muscle cells.
• Angiosarcoma: Originates in blood or lymph vessels.
• Synovial sarcoma: Originates in the tissues around joints.

Symptoms

The symptoms of soft-tissue sarcoma can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• A noticeable lump or swelling.
• Pain, especially if the tumor presses on nerves or muscles.
• Limited range of motion if the tumor is near a joint.
• Fatigue and weight loss in advanced stages.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of soft-tissue sarcoma typically involves a combination of imaging studies and biopsy. Common diagnostic methods include:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
• Biopsy: A sample of the tumor tissue is examined under a microscope.

Treatment

Treatment for soft-tissue sarcoma depends on the type, size, location, and stage of the cancer. Common treatment options include:

• Surgery: The primary treatment for most soft-tissue sarcomas, aiming to remove the tumor completely.
• Radiation therapy: Often used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor or kill remaining cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Used to kill cancer cells, especially in cases where the sarcoma has spread to other parts of the body.
• Targeted therapy: Uses drugs to target specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Prognosis

The prognosis for soft-tissue sarcoma varies widely based on factors such as the type of sarcoma, its location, and how early it is detected. Early-stage sarcomas that are localized and can be completely removed by surgery generally have a better prognosis. Advanced sarcomas that have spread to other parts of the body are more challenging to treat and have a poorer prognosis.

Prevention

There are no specific ways to prevent soft-tissue sarcoma, but some general recommendations include:

• Avoiding exposure to certain chemicals and radiation.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet.
• Regular medical check-ups for early detection.

See also

• Cancer
• Sarcoma
• Oncology
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy