It may start in any part of the body, including the arms, legs, and genital regions. It develops when muscle cells grow out of control and crowd out normal tissue. Although sarcomas usually occur in young adults, they can also occur in older adults. The following information will help you understand how sarcoma cancer works and what symptoms to look for in order to detect it early and make treatment more effective.
Some people are at risk for developing sarcoma if they have been exposed to certain chemicals or radiation treatments. The risk is slightly higher in people who have received a high-dose of radiotherapy at a young age. Most people will not develop sarcoma after having radiotherapy. Some people may also be genetically predisposed to the disease or have a family history of the disease. Genetic counseling is another option for detecting an individual’s risk for sarcoma.
Patients may notice a lump on their arm, leg, or abdomen. Most often, the mass is painless but may cause numbness or tingling. A doctor may also order blood tests to rule out other conditions. A chest x-ray can help detect if the cancer has spread to the lungs. If a lump is present in one or more of these locations, it is a good idea to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Although sarcoma recurrences are rare, many people diagnosed with this disease are worried about the possibility of a second attack. Fortunately, most recurrences occur within two years after initial diagnosis. By preparing for recurrence, a patient can avoid the added stress. Listed below are some tips to help patients deal with anxiety associated with sarcoma.
Surgical treatment for sarcomas may involve the removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue. While there is no cure for sarcoma, doctors are often able to provide patients with access to cutting-edge treatments before they become available to the general public. In addition to the chemotherapy and radiation therapy, patients with sarcoma can also benefit from emerging therapies such as gene therapy and immunotherapy. However, surgery can carry risks and has side effects, so it’s important to discuss any potential complications with your doctor before undergoing surgery.
Before surgery, your doctor will likely order a biopsy. This procedure involves taking a sample of the suspected lump and examining it under a microscope. Other lab tests will also be performed. A thorough examination is crucial for the diagnosis of sarcoma cancer. Fortunately, pathologists at Columbia Cancer are skilled and experienced in this field. They will accurately diagnose your disease so that it can be treated in the most effective way possible.
Although the specific type of sarcoma is not a factor in determining the prognosis of the disease, certain types are more aggressive than others. The level of tumor growth and the proportion of dead tissue are the factors used to predict a specific patient’s prognosis. Your physician will use the grade of a sarcoma to determine what treatment is most effective. This will determine how much your doctor should be able to do for you.
