Subtitle: Aggressive Sarcomas
Sarcomas are a type of cancer that develop in the body’s connective tissues, such as muscle, bones, fat, and cartilage. They can be divided into two main categories: soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas. Of the two, soft tissue sarcomas are the more common and aggressive type.
Soft tissue sarcomas can occur anywhere in the body, but are most commonly found in the arms, legs, trunk, and abdomen. These tumors can range in size from very small to large, and they often grow quickly. Treatment for soft tissue sarcomas depends on the type and stage of the cancer present. Surgery is the most common form of treatment, but chemotherapy and radiation may also be used.
The most aggressive type of soft tissue sarcoma is known as a high-grade sarcoma. High-grade sarcomas grow more quickly and have a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body. They are also more likely to recur after treatment. Common types of high-grade soft tissue sarcomas include:
• Liposarcoma: This type of sarcoma develops in fat cells and can be found in the abdomen, arms, and legs.
• Leiomyosarcoma: This type of sarcoma develops in smooth muscle cells and can be found in the abdomen, arms, and legs.
• Malignant fibrous histiocytoma: This type of sarcoma develops in connective tissue and can be found in any part of the body.
• Rhabdomyosarcoma: This type of sarcoma develops in skeletal muscle cells and can be found in the head, neck, arms, legs, and trunk.
High-grade sarcomas require active and aggressive treatment. Surgery is usually the first step in treating these types of tumors, and chemotherapy or radiation may be used after the surgery to help reduce the risk of recurrence.