Sarcoma

Sarcoma

Sarcomas are rare cancers that can affect any part of the body, including muscle, tendons, bone, blood vessels and fatty tissues. Although it is a rare form of cancer, patients that are affected, mostly develop sarcoma in the legs, arms and trunk of the body.

According to Sarcoma UK, there are four main types of sarcoma:

• Soft tissue sarcoma – Cancer that develops in supporting or connective tissue such as the tendons, muscle, nerves, blood vessels, occurring most commonly in the arms, legs or trunk
• Bone sarcoma – Cancer that starts the bone, most commonly affecting the legs
• Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST) – Cancer that develops supporting or connective tissue such as the tendons, muscle, nerves, blood vessels, but occurs in the digestive tract
• Gynaecological sarcoma - Cancer that develops in the female reproductive system
  

Symptoms

Symptoms caused by sarcoma can depend on where in the body it is situated and the rate at which it is growing. Some people may have symptoms, whereas others may not experience any. 

If you experience any of the detailed symptoms that aren’t normal for you, contact your GP who can refer you for further investigations.

Here are some common symptoms that may be experienced:

• A lump or swelling in the soft tissue of the body under the skin, often on the arm, leg or trunk, that is:
  • Has reached a size larger than 5cm
  • Appearing to be increasing in size
  • Usually painful, but not always heavy periods or bleeding in between periods, an enlarging fibroid, abdominal pain and bloating, noticeable lump on a section of the vulva (Gynaecological sarcoma only)

Further information & support

Being diagnosed with sarcoma and deciding on the best treatment can be daunting, for full details on sarcoma treatment options or to discuss a diagnosis, please contact our enquiries team. Our enquiries team will endeavour to help you assess your treatment options and advise which consultants could be best placed to plan your treatment pathway.

Macmillan Cancer Support offers a wide range of information and support, as well as help with your practical, emotional, and financial needs. All telephone helplines are free and confidential, and interpreting services are also available.

Freephone: 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 8.00pm) Website: www.macmillan.org.uk