Sarcoma, soft tissue (of muscle, fat, or fibrous connective tissue)—100

Sarcoma, soft tissue (of muscle, fat, or fibrous connective tissue) 

Soft tissue sarcoma refers to a broad category of malignant tumors that develop in the soft tissues of the body, including muscle, fat, or fibrous connective tissue. These tumors arise from abnormal growth of cells in these tissues and can occur in various locations throughout the body. Soft tissue sarcomas are relatively rare and can have different subtypes based on the specific tissue of origin.

Causes 

The causes of soft tissue sarcoma are:

• Genetic mutations or abnormalities in the DNA of soft tissue cells.
• Exposure to certain environmental factors or carcinogens.
• Inherited genetic syndromes, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, neurofibromatosis, or hereditary retinoblastoma.
• Previous radiation therapy to the affected area.
• Certain viral infections, such as human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8) or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Symptoms

Here are some symptoms of soft tissue sarcoma:

• Palpable mass or lump in the affected area.
• Pain or tenderness at the site of the tumor.
• Limited range of motion or stiffness.
• Swelling or enlargement of the affected area.
• Weakness or loss of function in nearby muscles or limbs.
• Fatigue or unexplained weight loss.
• Fever or night sweats in some cases.

Diagnosis 

Diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma is made through the following tests and exams:

• Physical examination to evaluate symptoms and identify any palpable masses or abnormalities.
• Imaging tests, such as MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound, to visualize the tumor and assess its size, location, and involvement with nearby structures.
• Biopsy of the tumor for histopathological examination, which helps confirm the presence of sarcoma cells and determine the specific subtype and grade of the tumor.
• Blood tests to assess overall health and identify any abnormalities that may be associated with the tumor.
• Additional tests, such as PET scan, bone scan, or molecular testing, may be performed to determine the extent of the disease, evaluate metastasis, and guide treatment decisions.
• Staging of the tumor to determine the extent of its spread and help plan appropriate treatment approaches.