Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates in the connective tissues of the body, including bones, muscles, fat, nerves, blood vessels, and fibrous tissues. These tumors can occur anywhere in the body but are most commonly found in the arms, legs, chest, and abdomen. Sarcoma is broadly categorized into soft tissue sarcoma and bone sarcoma (osteosarcoma).
Sarcoma develops when normal cells in the connective tissues undergo genetic mutations, causing them to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. Unlike carcinomas, which arise from epithelial cells, sarcomas originate in mesenchymal cells, which are responsible for forming the body’s structural framework. Due to their diverse origins, sarcomas are complex and require specialized treatment.
Rare but aggressive – Sarcomas account for only about 1% of all adult cancers but can be highly aggressive if not detected early.
Can develop in any connective tissue – Found in muscles, fat, bones, and other supportive structures.
More common in younger individuals – Unlike many cancers, sarcoma can occur in children, teenagers, and young adults.
Diverse subtypes – Over 70 different types of sarcoma exist, each requiring specific treatment approaches.
The exact cause of sarcoma is unknown, but certain factors increase the risk of developing this cancer:
Genetic mutations – Changes in DNA may trigger abnormal cell growth.
Radiation exposure – Previous radiation therapy for other cancers can increase sarcoma risk.
Family history – Certain inherited conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome raise susceptibility.
Chemical exposure – Industrial chemicals like herbicides and dioxins have been linked to sarcoma.
Chronic lymphedema – Long-term swelling due to lymphatic system blockage can contribute to angiosarcoma.
Paget’s disease of bone – A rare bone disorder that may lead to osteosarcoma.
Symptoms vary based on tumor location and size. Some general signs include:
Painless lump or swelling – Often the first noticeable symptom in soft tissue sarcoma.
Bone pain – Persistent, worsening pain in the affected bone.
Unexplained fractures – Weakened bones may break easily.
Weight loss and fatigue – Common in advanced cases.
Difficulty breathing – If sarcoma develops in the chest or lungs.
Bowel or bladder issues – When tumors press on internal organs.
Sarcoma is broadly classified into two main types:
Soft tissue sarcoma develops in muscles, fat, blood vessels, nerves, and fibrous tissues. Some common subtypes include:
Liposarcoma – Arises in fatty tissue, often in the legs or abdomen.
Leiomyosarcoma – Develops in smooth muscle tissue, commonly affecting the uterus or digestive tract.
Angiosarcoma – Originates in the blood or lymphatic vessels and spreads rapidly.
Rhabdomyosarcoma – Affects skeletal muscle tissue, frequently seen in children.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) – Occurs in the digestive tract and may be resistant to conventional chemotherapy.
Bone sarcomas are malignant tumors that form in the bone. Common subtypes include:
Osteosarcoma – The most common type of bone cancer, typically found in teenagers.
Ewing’s Sarcoma – Affects bones and surrounding soft tissues, often occurring in the pelvis or long bones.
Chondrosarcoma – Develops in cartilage and is more common in older adults.
Fibrosarcoma – Originates in the fibrous tissue of bones and is less common.
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. The following diagnostic methods are used:
Physical examination – Doctors assess lumps, pain, and mobility.
Imaging tests:
X-rays – Detect bone abnormalities.
MRI and CT scans – Provide detailed images of soft tissues and bones.
PET scans – Identify metastatic cancer spread.
Biopsy – A sample of tumor tissue is analyzed to confirm cancer type.
Genetic testing – Helps determine specific mutations that guide treatment decisions.
The choice of treatment depends on the tumor’s type, size, and location.
Surgical removal of the tumor is the primary treatment option:
Wide excision – Removes the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue.
Limb-sparing surgery – Aims to preserve the affected limb while removing cancerous tissue.
Amputation – In severe cases where the tumor cannot be removed safely.
High-energy radiation is used to destroy cancer cells before or after surgery:
External beam radiation – Targets tumors from outside the body.
Brachytherapy – Implants radioactive material near the tumor site.
Drugs are used to kill cancer cells, often for aggressive or advanced sarcoma.
Doxorubicin and Ifosfamide – Commonly used chemotherapy agents.
Combination therapy – Multiple drugs are used together for better efficacy.
This approach blocks specific molecules that support cancer growth.
Imatinib (Gleevec) – Effective for gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
Pazopanib (Votrient) – Used for certain soft tissue sarcomas.
Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells.
Checkpoint inhibitors – Drugs like pembrolizumab may help in specific cases.
Sarcoma prognosis depends on various factors:
Tumor size and location – Larger or deeply embedded tumors are harder to treat.
Metastasis – If cancer has spread, survival rates decrease.
Response to treatment – Some sarcoma types respond better to therapy.
Overall health and age – Younger and healthier patients have better outcomes.
Localized sarcoma – 5-year survival rate of 70-90%.
Regional spread – 50-60% survival rate.
Distant metastasis – Less than 20% survival rate.
While sarcoma cannot always be prevented, certain measures may lower risk:
Avoid radiation exposure unless medically necessary.
Limit exposure to chemicals linked to sarcoma.
Maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle.
Monitor genetic risk if sarcoma runs in the family.
Seek early medical attention for persistent lumps or pain.
A sarcoma diagnosis can be challenging, but coping strategies can improve quality of life:
Regular follow-ups – Monitor for recurrence or complications.
Physical therapy – Helps regain mobility after treatment.
Nutritional support – A balanced diet aids recovery.
Psychological counseling – Reduces stress and anxiety.
Support groups – Connecting with others facing similar challenges.