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Cancer Info

Sarcomas

Sarcomas are a type of cancer that arises from connective tissues, such as bones, muscles, fat, blood vessels, and nerves. Unlike carcinomas, which originate in epithelial tissues, sarcomas are less common and can occur in various parts of the body.

Sarcomas are relatively rare, accounting for about 1% of all cancers in India. The exact incidence can vary, but it’s estimated that there are around 5,000 new cases each year in the country. They can occur at any age but are more prevalent in young adults and children.

The main types of sarcomas include osteosarcoma (bone cancer), soft tissue sarcomas (such as liposarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma), and Ewing sarcoma. Each type has different characteristics and treatment approaches.

Symptoms can vary based on the sarcoma’s location. Common symptoms include:

  • A noticeable lump or swelling
  • Pain in the affected area
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Fatigue In some cases, symptoms may not appear until the cancer is more advanced.

Diagnosis typically involves:

  • A physical examination
  • Imaging tests (like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs)
  • A biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Management varies by stage:

  • Stage I: Often treated with surgery to remove the tumor.
  • Stage II: May involve surgery and possibly radiation.
  • Stage III: Typically requires a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
  • Stage IV: Focuses on palliative care, but aggressive treatments may still be an option.

Surgery is often the first line of treatment, aiming to remove the tumor completely. Surgeons try to ensure clear margins, meaning no cancer cells are left behind. In some cases, amputation may be necessary, but limb-sparing techniques are often preferred.

Radiotherapy is usually used:

  • After surgery to kill remaining cancer cells
  • Before surgery to shrink the tumor
  • In cases where surgery isn’t possible, to control symptoms

an be detected through a variety of methods, including screening tests (like mammograms or colonoscopies), imaging tests (like CT scans or MRIs), blood tests, and biopsies. Early detection is crucial because it increases the chances of successful treatment.

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It’s often used for high-grade sarcomas, especially if there’s a risk of metastasis. The treatment regimen varies based on the sarcoma type.

Amputation involves removing the affected limb or part of it, while limb salvage aims to remove the tumor while preserving as much limb function as possible. Advances in techniques have made limb salvage more successful in many cases.

Extracorporeal radiotherapy involves removing the tumor and irradiating it outside the body before reimplanting it. This technique helps spare healthy tissue and is particularly useful in limb salvage procedures.

Rehabilitation focuses on restoring function and quality of life. It may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling. The goal is to help patients regain strength and independence. 

Follow-up schedules vary but generally include regular check-ups every 3-6 months for the first few years, then annually. This monitoring helps catch any recurrence early. Follow-up may involve:

  • Physical exams
  • Imaging tests (like X-rays or MRIs)
  • Blood tests to check for specific tumor markers

CyberKnife is a form of stereotactic body radiotherapy that delivers high doses of radiation precisely to tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. It’s especially useful for tumors that are hard to reach surgically. CyberKnife is a valuable treatment for sarcoma mets that have spread to lungs, liver, lymph nodes or bones. Consult your Radiation Oncologist for further discussion.

Side effects depend on the treatment type. Surgery may lead to pain and recovery time. Chemotherapy can cause nausea, fatigue, and hair loss. Radiation may result in skin irritation and fatigue. It’s essential to discuss these with your doctor.

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