Sarcomas Explained: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
Sarcoma are a rare type of cancer that develop in the body’s connective tissues, including muscles, fat, nerves, blood vessels, bones and cartilage. Unlike common cancers that originate in major organs, sarcomas can appear almost anywhere, making them difficult to detect early. However, with timely diagnosis and proper treatment, patients can improve their chances of recovery.
This article explores sarcoma symptoms, risk factors, causes, diagnosis and treatment options to raise awareness and encourage early detection.
What Is Sarcoma?
Sarcoma refers to a group of cancers that start in connective tissues. Although it accounts for only 1-2% of all cancer diagnoses, it can be aggressive and difficult to treat if not detected early.
There are two main categories of sarcoma:
- Bone Sarcomas – These originate in the bones and are more common in younger individuals.
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas – These develop in soft tissues such as fat, muscle, blood vessels and nerves.
Understanding the different types of sarcoma helps in recognising symptoms and seeking timely medical attention.
Types of Sarcomas
Sarcomas vary based on their location, behaviour and response to treatment. The most common types include:
Bone Sarcomas
- Osteosarcoma – The most common bone cancer, often affecting teenagers and young adults, particularly in long bones like the arms and legs.
- Ewing’s Sarcoma – More common in children and young adults, usually forming in the pelvis, ribs, or leg bones.
- Chondrosarcoma – Affects cartilage tissue and is more frequently diagnosed in adults over 40.
Soft Tissue Sarcomas
- Liposarcoma – Develops in fat cells, commonly in the arms, legs, or abdomen.
- Leiomyosarcoma – Arises from smooth muscle tissue, often found in the digestive tract, uterus, or blood vessels.
- Angiosarcoma – Forms in blood or lymphatic vessels and can develop anywhere in the body.
- Rhabdomyosarcoma – Affects skeletal muscle tissue and is more common in children.
Since sarcomas can develop in different locations, their symptoms vary. Identifying early warning signs can lead to quicker diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.
Common Symptoms of Sarcoma
Sarcomas often grow without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, as they progress, they may cause:
- A lump or swelling, which may be painless at first but becomes tender as it grows
- Persistent pain, especially if the tumour presses on nerves or muscles
- Limited mobility, particularly when the tumour is near a joint
- Unexplained fractures, in cases of bone sarcoma
- Fatigue and unexplained weight loss, which typically occur in advanced cases
If any of these symptoms persist, seeking medical advice promptly is essential.
Causes and Risk Factors of Sarcoma
Although the exact cause of sarcoma is unknown, certain factors increase the risk of developing this cancer.
Risk Factors for Sarcoma
- Genetic conditions – Inherited disorders such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome or neurofibromatosis can increase the risk.
- Previous radiation therapy – Individuals who have undergone radiation treatment for other cancers may develop sarcoma later in life.
- Exposure to chemicals – Industrial chemicals such as vinyl chloride and dioxins have been linked to an increased risk of soft tissue sarcomas.
- Lymphedema – Chronic swelling due to fluid build-up has been associated with angiosarcoma.
- Age and gender – Some sarcomas, like osteosarcoma, are more common in teenagers, while others, such as chondrosarcoma, are typically found in older adults.
Even though these factors contribute to an increased risk, many people diagnosed with sarcoma have no known risk factors. This highlights the importance of regular check-ups and early detection.
How Sarcomas Are Diagnosed
Doctors use a combination of tests to confirm sarcoma and determine its stage.
Diagnostic Tests for Sarcoma
- Imaging scans – X-rays, MRI, CT scans and PET scans help identify the tumour’s location and size.
- Biopsy – A tissue sample is examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of sarcoma.
- Genetic testing – Some sarcomas have specific genetic markers that help guide treatment choices.
Staging Sarcoma
Sarcomas are staged based on:
- Tumour size – Larger tumours tend to be more aggressive.
- Location – Some sarcomas are easier to remove surgically than others.
- Spread to other tissues – If cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant organs, treatment becomes more complex.
Staging helps doctors create the most effective treatment plan for each patient.
Treatment Options for Sarcoma
The type of sarcoma, its size and its stage determine the most effective treatment approach. Common treatments include:
Surgery
Doctors remove the tumour along with a small margin of healthy tissue to reduce the risk of recurrence. In some cases, reconstructive surgery may be required after tumour removal.
Radiation Therapy
High-energy radiation kills cancer cells and is often used before surgery to shrink the tumour or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Drugs target rapidly growing cancer cells and are especially effective for aggressive sarcomas, such as Ewing’s sarcoma.
Targeted Therapy
Certain sarcomas respond well to drugs that block specific proteins or genes responsible for tumour growth.
Immunotherapy
This treatment boosts the immune system’s ability to fight cancer. While not effective for all sarcomas, some patients benefit from immunotherapy drugs.
In many cases, a combination of these treatments provides the best results.
Why Early Detection Matters
Because sarcomas often develop silently, it is essential to pay attention to unusual lumps, swelling, or persistent pain. If you experience any concerning symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
By raising awareness about sarcoma symptoms, causes and treatment options, more people can receive timely medical attention, improving their chances of successful treatment and recovery. At Molechex, we understand the importance of early detection in preventing serious skin conditions. Our team of experienced doctors in skin cancer checks and comprehensive skin assessments to identify any unusual changes. Regular skin examinations can help detect abnormalities early, ensuring timely medical intervention. If you have any concerns about changes in your skin or unusual lumps, seeking professional advice as soon as possible can make all the difference.
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