Soft tissue sarcoma is known as a rare type of cancer that affects the muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues of the body, leading to malignant tumors. There are more than 70 different types of soft tissue sarcomas. It often progresses without showing clear symptoms. Treatment typically involves the surgical removal of the cancerous tumor.

What is Soft Tissue Cancer (Sarcoma)?

Cancer of soft tissue refers to malignant tumors that rarely occur in the body’s soft tissues. It can develop in any area where soft tissue is present. The main sites where cancer of soft tissue may arise include:

  • Blood vessels
  • Body fat
  • Muscles
  • Nerves
  • Ligaments
  • Lymphatic vessels
  • Tendons

Cancer of soft tissue most commonly develops in the arms, legs, abdominal region, and chest. It is more frequently observed in adults compared to children.

Types of soft tissue sarcoma

There are more than 70 different types of soft tissue sarcoma. The main types of soft tissue sarcoma include:

  • Angiosarcoma: Develops in the inner lining of blood vessels and lymphatic vessels; considered an aggressive form of soft tissue sarcoma.
  • Desmoplastic small round cell tumors: Arise in the lining of the abdomen and pelvis.
  • Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs): Form in the digestive system.
  • Leiomyosarcoma: Affects the muscles.
  • Liposarcoma: Typically develops in the legs.
  • Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST): Occurs in the protective tissue layers surrounding the peripheral nerves.
  • Synovial sarcoma: May develop near joints, as well as in the abdomen, arms, legs, or lungs.
  • Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma: Usually arises in the arms and legs.
  • Malignant schwannomas: Affect nerves in the arms, legs, or lower back.
  • Myxofibrosarcoma: Forms in fat or cartilage located just beneath the skin.
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma: Involves the muscles of the arms, legs, head, neck, and abdomen; more commonly seen in children and young adults than in adults.

Does a soft tissue mass mean cancer?

Masses that develop in the body’s soft tissues may result from benign causes such as lipomas, cysts, benign tumors, or lesions related to infection. However, in rare cases, certain soft tissue masses can be malignant tumors, such as sarcomas.

Soft Tissue Cancer Symptoms

Soft tissue cancers tend to develop and grow slowly. Months or even years may pass before symptoms appear. If the following signs occur, it may be necessary to consult a doctor:

  • A lump developing anywhere in the body
  • Worsening abdominal pain
  • Pain or tenderness in the lump
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Blood in the stool or stools that appear black
  • Nausea and vomiting

What do pictures of soft tissue sarcoma cancer look like?

An image of soft tissue sarcoma typically shows a swelling or a distinct mass developing beneath the skin. These masses may initially be painless but can gradually enlarge and exert pressure on the surrounding tissues.

Soft Tissue Sarcoma Causes

Although the exact cause of soft tissue cancer is not fully understood, it is often associated with genetic mutations. Certain inherited disorders can increase this risk.

The main hereditary causes of soft tissue sarcoma include:

  • Lynch syndrome
  • Maffucci syndrome
  • Gardner syndrome
  • Hereditary retinoblastom
  • Li-Fraumeni syndrome
  • Neurofibromatosis type 1

Other risk factors include:

  • Undergoing radiation therapy
  • Experiencing lymphedema in the arms or legs
  • Exposure to harmful chemicals

How is Soft Tissue Sarcoma Diagnosed?

After performing a physical examination, the doctor listens to the patient’s complaints and checks for any swelling or lumps in the body. In addition, imaging tests are used to ensure an accurate diagnosis. These may include:

  • Ultrasound
  • CT scan
  • MRI
  • PET scan

If cancer is detected following imaging, the patient is referred to an oncologist. A surgical oncologist may perform a biopsy to obtain a tissue sample. Once the sample is examined, the type, stage, and grade of the sarcoma are determined.

How is Soft Tissue Sarcoma Treated?

The most common treatment for soft tissue cancer is the surgical removal of the malignant tumor. In addition, the surgical oncologist may recommend complementary therapies such as:

Frequently Asked Questions About Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Is soft tissue sarcoma curable?

Soft tissue sarcoma detected at an early stage can be completely treated through surgical intervention. In advanced stages, it may be controlled with additional therapies.

How long can you have sarcoma without knowing?

Soft tissue sarcoma often progresses for months or even years without showing symptoms. For this reason, regular medical check-ups are essential.

Where does sarcoma first spread?

Soft tissue sarcoma most commonly spreads first to the lungs. In more advanced stages, it may also metastasize to other organs.

 

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