Soft tissue sarcomas are a diverse group of rare cancers that develop from cells found in muscles, tendons, fat, blood vessels, and other parts of the body. While there is no cure for soft tissue sarcomas, they are treatable and many people respond well to treatment.
Treatments for Soft Tissue Sarcoma
The type of treatment for soft tissue sarcoma depends on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the patient’s age, overall health, and personal preferences. Depending on the case, a combination of treatments may be recommended, such as surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and/or hormone therapy.
Surgery
Surgery is the most common treatment for soft tissue sarcoma. It is used to remove the tumor and any surrounding tissue that may contain cancer cells. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor completely, which can help to prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams, such as X-rays, to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It can be used before surgery to shrink the tumor, or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs work by killing cancer cells or stopping them from growing and dividing. It can be used before, during, or after surgery, depending on the stage of the tumor.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy drugs target specific genes or proteins that help cancer cells grow and spread. These drugs can be used to treat certain types of soft tissue sarcomas that have specific genetic mutations.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy drugs help to strengthen the body’s natural immune system so it can fight cancer cells more effectively. These drugs can be used to treat certain types of soft tissue sarcomas.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy is used to treat tumors that are sensitive to hormones. It can help to slow the growth of the tumor and may be used in combination with other treatments.
Overall, soft tissue sarcomas are treatable and many people respond well to treatment. Treatment plans for soft tissue sarcomas are tailored to each individual patient and may include a combination of treatments. It is important to talk to your doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you.