Sarcoma (soft tissue cancer)

Description A malignant cancer ...

Description

A malignant cancer of the soft tissue including the muscles, nerves, fat, blood vessels, tendons and covering of the joints (synovium). These cancers are rare but very dangerous and if not detected and treated early can result in death. One particular type is called Kaposi sarcoma and is seen in patients with weakened immune systems such as AIDS. While this disorder can occur at any age it is generally seen in older patients. The risk of this cancer increases with exposure to the chemicals vinyl chloride and dioxin. Radiation exposure for the treatment of other cancers also increases one risk of the disease. These cancers can occur anywhere but are most commonly found in the abdomen, arms and legs.

Symptoms

Pain and swelling of the affected area. Many other symptoms can occur depending on the location of the cancer and whether the growth is damaging other organs. For example, sarcomas involving the lung can cause shortness of breath and/or chest pain; involvement of the abdomen can cause a blockage of the intestine resulting in vomiting and stomach pain.

Tests

Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment

Workup:
A history and physical exam will be done. The diagnosis is made by using blood tests and imaging tests. A biopsy of the affected area is also usually performed.

Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Positron emission tomography (PET) scan, X-ray

Specialists:
Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Hematology and Oncology

Treatment

Therapy depends on the extent and location of the cancer but includes surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.