What is Soft Tissue Cancer?

Soft tissue sarcoma describes cancerous tumors that consist of muscles, fat, nerves, veins, connective tissues, and other soft tissues in the body. The term "soft tissue" refers to all tissues outside of the bones. This type of cancer can usually develop anywhere in the body and is often fast-growing. Although soft tissue cancer is not common in the body, it is a serious disease and can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. Diagnosis and treatment must be performed by an orthopedic tumor surgeon.

Types of Soft Tissue Cancer

Soft tissue cancers can have several different subtypes. They are classified depending on which type of soft tissue cells the cancer develops from. Here are some common types of soft tissue cancer:

• Liposarcoma: A soft tissue tumor that develops from fat tissue. It can mostly be seen in the legs, abdomen, or arms. Liposarcoma is usually painless, but it can press on surrounding tissues as it grows.
• Leimyosarcoma: A type of cancer that originates from smooth muscle. It is usually seen in the abdomen or in the uterus (womb), but it can also develop in other parts of the body.
• Rhabdomyosarcoma: A type of cancer that develops from muscle tissue and is more common in children. Rhabdomyosarcoma can be seen in different parts of the body, especially in the head and neck region and the urogenital region.
• Fibrosarcoma: A type of cancer that develops from connective tissue. It is usually found in the limbs of the body, such as the legs or arms.
• Angiosarcoma: A type of cancer that originates from blood vessels. This type can usually develop in the skin or internal organs, especially the liver.
• Synovial Sarcoma: A cancer that develops from joint capsules and connective tissues. It is a rare soft tissue cancer that is usually seen in young people and is most often located in the legs.

Soft Tissue Cancer Symptoms

The symptoms of soft tissue cancers vary depending on the location and size of the cancer. This type of cancer usually grows slowly and does not show any obvious symptoms at first. However, the following symptoms may be seen in later stages:

• A growing mass: Most soft tissue cancers can be felt as a lump or mass under the skin. This mass is usually painless, but sometimes it can press on surrounding tissues and cause pain.
• Pain: As the cancerous tumor grows, it can press on surrounding tissues and affect nerves, causing pain.
• Limited mobility: Tumors can affect muscles, ligaments, or nerves, which can limit joint mobility.
• Rapid weight loss: If the tumor grows or metastasizes, the body's overall health can be affected. In this case, unexplained weight loss may occur.
• Skin color changes: In some soft tissue cancers, such as angiosarcoma, bruising or redness may be seen on the skin.

Causes of Soft Tissue Cancer

The exact cause of soft tissue cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors may lead to the development of this type of cancer:

• Genetic factors: People with a family history of soft tissue cancer are thought to be at higher risk. Certain genetic diseases (such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, neurofibromatosis, and Gardner syndrome) can cause this type of cancer to develop.
• Radiation therapy: High-dose radiation therapy received in the past can lead to the development of soft tissue cancers, especially at younger ages. Radiation can cause DNA damage, paving the way for cancer to develop.
• Age: Soft tissue cancer is more common in individuals aged 50 and older. However, some types, especially rhabdomyosarcoma, may be more common in children.
• Immune system problems: People with suppressed immune systems (for example, those who have had an organ transplant) may have an increased risk of developing soft tissue cancer.

Diagnosing Soft Tissue Cancer

Soft tissue cancer can be diagnosed with several different tests. The diagnosis process usually involves the following steps:

• Physical Exam: The doctor will feel the lump or mass by hand. He or she will learn about the location, size, and feel of the cancer.
• Imaging Tests: MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans may be done to evaluate the size and spread of the tumor.
• Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the tumor and examined under a microscope to make a definitive diagnosis. A biopsy is important to determine the type of soft tissue cancer. The orthopedic tumor surgeon who will perform the surgery should perform the biopsy.
• Blood Tests: Some blood tests can be done to determine whether the cancer has spread in the body, but these tests alone are not enough to make a diagnosis.

Soft Tissue Cancer Treatment

Soft tissue cancer treatment varies depending on the type, stage, and extent of spread of the cancer. Treatment options include the following:

• Surgical Intervention: The most common method for treating soft tissue cancer is surgical removal of the tumor. Cancers caught in the early stages can usually be successfully treated with surgery.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy can be used before or after surgery. In addition, radiation therapy alone may be effective in some types of cancer if the tumor cannot be removed.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a drug treatment used to kill cancer cells. Some types of soft tissue cancer, especially if they have metastasized, may require chemotherapy.
• Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapies: These newer treatments target the genetic makeup of the cancer and help it fight the cancer. Immunotherapies can help strengthen the immune system to help it fight the cancer.

Prognosis of Soft Tissue Cancer

The prognosis of soft tissue cancer depends on the type of cancer, its stage, its response to treatment, and the patient's general health. Cancers that are caught in the early stages and can be completely removed with surgery usually have better results. Surgery should be performed by an orthopedic tumor surgeon to completely and safely remove the tumor. However, if the cancer is in the later stages or has metastasized, the prognosis may be more serious.

Conclusion

Soft tissue cancer is a rare but serious disease. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly increase the success of treatment. If you notice a swelling, mass or pain in your body, it is important to consult a health professional. Awareness of soft tissue cancer can improve quality of life with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment.