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Soft Tissue Sarcomas

CONDITIONS

Soft tissue sarcomas are a rare group of cancers that develop in the tissues that connect and support the body, such as muscles, nerves, fat, blood vessels and tendons. They require a specialised team and careful planning, because the first operation largely determines the outcome.

1 %of cancers in adults, about 7 % in children
50 to 80 %five-year survival at the early stages, depending on the type and size
1 teamsurgeons, oncologists and radiation oncologists plan every case together

Risk factors and symptoms

Sarcomas may be due to a genetic predisposition, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, to previous radiation, to industrial chemicals or to certain viral infections, such as HIV. Symptoms depend on the site and size of the tumour.

  • A lump a mass that grows over time, often painless at first
  • Pain or pressure when the tumour presses on nerves or neighbouring organs
  • Difficulty moving when it lies close to joints or muscles

Diagnosis

Diagnosis proceeds from the clinical examination to imaging and biopsy. The biopsy must be planned by the team that will also perform the surgery, so that the needle track can be removed together with the tumour.

  1. Clinical examination

    Checking the area for a tumour, its size and its relation to the surrounding tissues.

  2. MRI

    Precise localisation of the tumour and its relation to vessels and nerves.

  3. CT scan

    Assessment of spread, mainly to the lungs.

  4. Biopsy

    Tissue sampling for histopathological and molecular analysis, which defines the type of sarcoma.

  5. PET scan

    In selected cases, to detect metastases.

Treatments

Treatment options are often combined. The decisive element for success is careful, individualised preoperative planning by a specialised team of oncologists and surgeons.

Surgical excisionThe main treatment. The tumour is removed with a margin of healthy tissue around it (clear margins) to reduce the risk of recurrence. Depending on the site, reconstructive surgery may be needed to restore function. Physiotherapy and regular follow-up come after the operation.
RadiotherapyBefore surgery to shrink the tumour or afterwards to destroy remaining cancer cells. It reduces the risk of local recurrence. Side effects are skin redness, fatigue and possible damage to the healthy tissues of the area.
ChemotherapyMainly at the advanced or metastatic stages, and in some types before surgery. Results vary according to the type of sarcoma. Side effects are nausea, hair loss and fatigue.
Targeted therapyIt focuses on the genetic abnormalities of the cancer cells. A typical example is gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST), where tyrosine kinase inhibitors changed the prognosis. It requires close monitoring for rashes and blood pressure.
ImmunotherapyIt activates the immune system against the tumour. For most sarcomas it is still being tested in clinical trials, with encouraging results in some patients. Side effects are fatigue and inflammation of organs.
Follow-upRegular check-ups with clinical examination and imaging for the early detection of local recurrence or metastases, more frequent in the first years.

Can they be prevented

Prevention focuses on avoiding unnecessary exposure to industrial chemicals and medical radiation. People with a family history of cancer can undergo genetic testing, and those in high-risk groups need regular medical follow-up, so that any abnormality is detected early.

Your care at the 4th Oncology Clinic

Every case is discussed at the Clinic’s tumour board, where medical oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists jointly design the personalised treatment plan. Sarcomas are a particularly demanding category, and the cooperation of surgeons, oncologists and radiologists from the very first moment is crucial. Our patients have access to new treatments through the Clinical Trials Centre and, where there is a family history, to genetic counselling. Meet our team or contact us for an appointment.

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Soft Tissue Sarcomas

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Appointments: 210 48 09 150, 210 48 09 160
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oncology.clinic4@gmail.com

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