Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Soft tissue sarcoma is a type of cancer that develops in the soft tissues of the body, which include muscles, tendons, fat, blood vessels, and other supporting tissues.

Types of Soft Tissue Sarcomas

• Liposarcoma: arises from fat cells
• Leiomyosarcoma: arises from smooth muscle cells
• Malignant fibrous histiocytoma: arises from fibroblasts and histiocytes
• Rhabdomyosarcoma: arises from skeletal muscle cells
• Angiosarcoma: arises from blood vessel cells
• Synovial sarcoma: arises from synovial tissue, which surrounds joints and tendons
• Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST): arises from the digestive tract

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of soft tissue sarcoma is not known, but certain factors may increase the risk of developing this type of cancer, including:

• Genetic disorders, such as neurofibromatosis or Li-Fraumeni syndrome
• Exposure to radiation therapy
• Chemical exposure, such as vinyl chloride or arsenic
• Family history of cancer
• Age, with most cases occurring in adults over the age of 50

Symptoms

The symptoms of soft tissue sarcoma may vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• A lump or swelling under the skin
• Pain or soreness in the affected area
• Weakness or numbness in the affected limb
• Bleeding or bruising in the affected area

Diagnosis

Soft tissue sarcoma is typically diagnosed using a combination of imaging tests and biopsy. Imaging tests may include:

• X-rays
• Computed tomography (CT) scans
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scans

A biopsy involves removing a sample of tissue from the affected area and examining it under a microscope for cancer cells.

Treatment

The treatment for soft tissue sarcoma depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the patient. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue
• Radiation therapy: to kill cancer cells using high-energy rays
• Chemotherapy: to kill cancer cells using medications
• (Targeted therapy): to target specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells

Prognosis

The prognosis for soft tissue sarcoma varies depending on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the patient. In general, the 5-year survival rate for soft tissue sarcoma is around 50-60%. However, with early detection and treatment, the prognosis can be improved.