Arm Soft Tissue Sarcoma: Signs and Further Information
Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are a less common but potentially dangerous type of cancer that can develop in the body's soft tissues, such as muscle, fat, blood vessels, skin, fibrous tissues, and nerves. These tumours typically grow slowly but can be aggressive and spread to other parts of the body.
Common Types and Locations
STS can occur in various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, trunk, neck, head, internal organs, and abdomen. Some common types of STS that develop outside the limbs include undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) and rhabdomyosarcoma.
Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) usually starts in the trunk, head, or neck and can present as a painless lump, which may later cause pain due to pressure on nerves or muscles. Rhabdomyosarcoma, on the other hand, often affects the head, neck, urinary, and reproductive systems, causing swelling, pain, difficulty urinating, or bowel problems.
Other types of STS, such as synovial sarcoma, clear cell sarcoma, and low-grade myxofibrosarcoma, typically develop in the arms and legs. For example, clear cell sarcoma usually starts in the tendons of the arms or legs but can also develop in the hands and feet. Low-grade myxofibrosarcomas usually develop under the skin's surface in the arms and legs.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The most common sign of STS in the arm is a lump or area of swelling, which may be painless or cause pain if it presses against nerves or muscles. Other symptoms may include persistent localized pain or discomfort, swelling in areas other than the limbs (such as the abdomen or neck), and in some cases, unexplained bleeding if the tumour invades organs like the bladder or intestines.
Because STS can mimic benign conditions or cause vague symptoms like persistent aches or small lumps, early medical evaluation and imaging (MRI, CT) are crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning. If you notice a new lump or persistent pain/swelling in areas other than the arms and legs, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for timely evaluation.
Treatment and Survival Rates
The treatment for STS in the arm may involve limb-sparing surgery, which can replace removed tissue with an implant or tissue graft. After surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy may be used to further reduce the sarcoma.
The outlook for STS in the arm depends on factors such as the type of sarcoma, whether it has spread, an individual's age, and overall health. For localized STS, the 5-year relative survival rate is 81%. For regional STS, the 5-year relative survival rate is 56%. For distant STS, the 5-year relative survival rate is 15%. The 5-year relative survival rate for all stages of STS combined is 65%.
One type of STS, solitary fibrous tumours, typically do not spread to other parts of the body and can be malignant but are often benign. They usually start in the underarm, thigh, or pelvis.
In conclusion, while soft tissue sarcomas are less common than other types of cancer, they can be aggressive and spread quickly if not detected early. It is essential to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention promptly if any suspicious lumps or swellings are noticed outside the arms and legs. With early detection and appropriate treatment, many patients can achieve a good prognosis and return to a normal, healthy life.
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