Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Soft tissue sarcoma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the muscle, fat, fibrous tissue, blood vessels, or other supporting tissue of the body. It can develop anywhere in the body but is most commonly found in the arms and legs. There are only a limited number of centers in the world that can deal effectively with this type of tumor. At KHCC, a specialized team of physicians and nurses who are experienced in treating all types of sarcoma (Sarcoma multidisciplinary team) take care of patients with different types of sarcoma.

Causes of soft tissue sarcoma

The exact cause of soft tissue sarcomas is unknown, but some families have a genetic predisposition which they can pass on to their children. Certain genetic mutations and conditions may increase the risk of developing it. Past treatment with radiotherapy or anticancer drugs called alkylating agents can increase the risk as well.

However, having one or more of these risk factors does not mean that a person will definitely get soft tissue sarcoma.

Symptoms of soft tissue sarcoma

Sarcomas may appear as a lump under the skin, usually on the arm or leg. There might not be any symptoms until the tumor becomes very large, at which point patients start to feel pain as the tumor begins to press on nearby organs, muscles or nerves. Unlike bone sarcomas, pain is not a main symptom of soft tissue tumors.

Diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma

It is mainly diagnosed by performing a complete physical examination and performing a biopsy.. Proper planning of the biopsy with careful consideration of future surgeries is important so as not to jeopardize the subsequent treatment. An MRI of the affected limb is needed to evaluate the local spread of the disease, while a CT scan of the chest is needed to evaluate any spread of the cancer to the lungs. A bone scan is also needed to rule out spreading to bone.

Treatment of soft tissue sarcoma at KHCC

Surgical removal of the tumor is the first main line of treatment for soft tissue sarcomas. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy may also be used in treatment before or after surgery.