Egyptian Cancer Society ECS shared a post on LinkedIn:
“A tumor that grows quietly… It may go months without getting noticed.
July is Sarcoma Tumor Awareness Month.
Not all tumors start in an internal organ, a rare type of cancer known as sarcoma, which originates in bones or soft tissues such as muscles, fat, blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and nerves.
Although sarcomas account for less than 1% of all cancers in adults, its delay in diagnosis can make its treatment more complicated, so knowledge of symptoms remains the first step towards early detection.
Symptoms that may require a doctor’s visit:
- A lump or swelling that gradually increases in size, especially if it exceeds 5 cm.
- Persistent pain in the bones, especially during the night or at rest.
- Swelling or a deep lump under the skin even if it is painless.
- Difficulty moving or weakness in one limb as a result of the tumor pressing on muscles or nerves.
- Fractures that occur without obvious injury and may be a sign of a bone tumor.
How is the diagnosis made?
Diagnosis is based on a clinical examination, then appropriate scans such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or CT scans, and taking and analyzing a tumor sample remains the primary means of confirming the diagnosis and accurately determining the type of sarcoma.
Can sarcoma be treated?
Treatment depends on the type of tumor, its size, location, and stage, and may include:
- Surgery.
- Radiation therapy.
- Chemotherapy.
- Targeted or immunotherapy for some species.
Doctors emphasize that early detection and treatment in specialized centers for sarcoma tumors contribute significantly to improving treatment outcomes and maintaining the function of the affected organ.
Don’t ignore a mass that grows over time… Early screening can make a big difference.”
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