Sarcoma Treatment in Delhi, India

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Overview

Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates in the body's connective tissues, which include bones, muscles, fat, blood vessels, nerves, tendons, and soft tissues. Sarcomas account for only a small percentage of all cancer cases, approximately 1% of adult cancers and 15% of childhood cancers. Despite their rarity, sarcomas are a significant concern due to their aggressive nature and potential to spread to other parts of the body.

Types of Sarcoma

Soft Tissue Sarcomas: These arise in the soft tissues of the body and can develop in any part, including the muscles, tendons, nerves, blood vessels, and fatty tissues.
Bone Sarcomas: They form in the bones, most commonly around the knee.

Sarcoma Symptoms

The symptoms of sarcoma depend on the location and size of the tumour. Common signs and symptoms may include:

A palpable lump or mass that may or may not be painful
Localised pain or tenderness
Limited range of motion, especially if the tumour affects joints or muscles
Fatigue and unexplained weight loss in advanced cases
Pressure or compression of nearby structures, leading to symptoms such as nerve pain or difficulty breathing (depending on the location of the tumour)

Sarcoma Causes

The exact cause of sarcomas is not always known. However, certain risk factors have been identified, including:

Genetic Factors: Some rare genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and hereditary retinoblastoma, increase the risk of developing sarcomas.
Radiation Exposure: Prior exposure to high doses of radiation, such as during cancer treatments, may increase the risk of developing sarcomas.
Environmental Factors: Some chemicals, such as vinyl chloride and arsenic, have been associated with an increased risk of developing sarcomas.
Age: Sarcomas can occur at any age, but some subtypes are more common in specific age groups (e.g. Ewing sarcoma in adolescents).

Sarcoma Diagnosis

Diagnosing sarcoma requires a comprehensive approach involving various tests and procedures, including:

Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the suspected tumour site and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancerous cells and determine the type of sarcoma.
Imaging Studies: X-rays, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography) scans, and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans help evaluate the size, location, and extent of the tumour, as well as check for potential metastasis.
Genetic Testing: It may be performed to identify specific genetic abnormalities associated with certain sarcoma subtypes.