Understanding sarcoma, one of the rarest types of cancer
Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that forms in bones or connective tissue in the body, including muscle, nerves, tissue, and blood vessels. Sarcomas can be soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas (osteosarcomas). Often called the “forgotten cancer,” rare cancer affects thousands of Americans annually. Rarely curable, sarcoma is considered Stage IV when it … Continued
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Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that forms in bones or connective tissue in the body, including muscle, nerves, tissue, and blood vessels.
Sarcomas can be soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas (osteosarcomas). Often called the “forgotten cancer,” rare cancer affects thousands of Americans annually.
Rarely curable, sarcoma is considered Stage IV when it has spread to different body parts. But some patients may be cured when the primary tumor and other areas of the cancer spread, or metastases can be removed by surgery. People have the most success rate when the cancer has spread only to the lungs.
While sarcoma makes up about 1% of all cancer diagnoses, it is difficult to detect and diagnose because of the more than 50 different subtypes.
The symptoms
Often the first sign of a sarcoma is a painless lump. This type of cancer typically has no symptoms in the early stages. But as the lump grows, it can cause pain and discomfort, requiring medical attention and leading to a diagnosis. Children and young adults have a higher incidence of osteosarcoma, which is often mistaken for growing pains or sports injuries.
The treatment
A biopsy, imaging test, or scan often diagnoses more than 50 types of sarcoma cancer. Diagnosis is achieved through a biopsy, imaging test, or scan. The medical professional in charge of the patient’s care will recommend a treatment plan. Treatments include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or the newest targeted therapies that work with the immune system.
Where can I go for support?
If you need more information about sarcoma after you or a loved one is diagnosed with sarcoma, contact the American Cancer Society. The organization can help you learn more about the diagnosis, what it means, and details on treatment options. You also can get advice on coping with side effects or have questions about financial and health insurance matters.
Caregivers and family members can find out what to expect when caring for someone with sarcoma and other types of cancer.
Call the Cancer Helpline at (800) 227-2345 or visit cancer.org for additional information.
