What is Sarcoma ?

Sarcoma is a type of cancer that begins in the connective tissues of the body, such as the bones, muscles, fat, cartilage, blood vessels, and nerves.

It is relatively rare compared to more common cancers like carcinomas, which develop in the skin or internal organs. Sarcomas can occur anywhere in the body but are most frequently found in the arms, legs, and abdomen.

Sarcoma Cancer Treatment in Nanakramguda, Hyderabad typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's size, location, and stage.

Early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans significantly improve outcomes and help preserve functionality in affected areas.

Symptoms

Signs and Symptoms of sarcoma

Signs and symptoms of sarcoma may include:

• A lump or swelling that is painful or painless.
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area (especially in bone sarcomas).
• Limited movement or discomfort in the affected limb or area.
• Unexplained fractures (in the case of bone sarcomas).

When to See a Doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that worry you.

Causes

The exact cause of sarcoma is unknown, but several factors can increase the risk of developing it:

• Genetic conditions: Conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Gardner's syndrome, and neurofibromatosis can increase the risk of sarcoma.
• Radiation therapy: Previous exposure to radiation, particularly for the treatment of other cancers, can increase the risk of developing a sarcoma later in life.
• Age:Some types of sarcomas are more common in children and young adults (e.g., osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma), while others, like soft tissue sarcomas, are more common in older adults.

Types of sarcoma

Sarcomas are broadly categorized into two main groups based on the tissue they affect:

• Soft Tissue Sarcomas: These develop in the soft tissues, such as muscles, fat, and blood vessels. Common types include:
• Liposarcoma (fat tissue)
• Leiomyosarcoma (smooth muscle tissue)
• Rhabdomyosarcoma (skeletal muscle tissue)
• Synovial sarcoma (tissues around joints)

Note: Many sarcomas do not cause symptoms in their early stages, making early detection harder.

Risk Factors

The exact cause of sarcoma is unknown, but several factors can increase the risk of developing it:

• Genetic conditions:Conditions like Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Gardner's syndrome, and neurofibromatosis can increase the risk of sarcoma.
• Radiation therapy: Previous exposure to radiation, particularly for the treatment of other cancers, can increase the risk of developing a sarcoma later in life.
• Age: Some types of sarcomas are more common in children and young adults (e.g., osteosarcoma and Ewing's sarcoma), while others, like soft tissue sarcomas, are more common in older adults.
• Family history: A family history of sarcoma or other cancers may increase the risk, though most sarcomas are sporadic (not inherited).