What is Ewing Sarcoma?

Ewing Sarcoma is a malignant bone tumor commonly seen in childhood and adolescence. It typically occurs in the pelvis, femur, ribs, and spine. It can develop in bone or soft tissue and has a high tendency for rapid spread (metastasis). Ewing Sarcoma was first described by Dr. James Ewing in 1921 and is named after him. Since it progresses quickly, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.

Symptoms of Ewing Sarcoma

Ewing Sarcoma presents with severe pain, swelling, increased temperature in the affected area, and restricted movement. Patients may experience night pain, a growing mass, and localized tenderness. In some cases, systemic symptoms such as fever and weight loss may also be observed.

• Bone Pain: Pain that often worsens at night.
• Swelling or Mass: Growth in the affected area.
• Movement Restriction: Difficulty, especially around the joints.
• Fever and Weight Loss: Symptoms seen in advanced stages.

Diagnosis Methods for Ewing Sarcoma

Diagnosis involves physical examination and imaging techniques such as X-ray, MRI, CT, and PET scans. A definitive diagnosis is made through a biopsy, where a tissue sample is examined pathologically. Additionally, the common genetic translocation t(11;22)(q24;q12) in the tumor can be detected through molecular genetic testing.

Treatment Methods for Ewing Sarcoma

The treatment of Ewing Sarcoma follows a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Surgery aims to remove the tumor and reconstruct the area with healthy tissue. Chemotherapy is effective in shrinking tumor cells and preventing metastasis. Radiotherapy is used in cases where surgery is not feasible or to eliminate remaining tumor cells after surgery.

Treatment Methods:

• Chemotherapy: Used to shrink tumor cells and prevent spread.
• Surgery: Focuses on tumor removal and reconstruction with healthy tissue.
• Radiotherapy: Targets tumor cells after surgery or in cases where surgery is not possible.

Images of Ewing Sarcoma

Below are examples of how Ewing Sarcoma appears in various bones: