By Dr. Sidra Khalid
The month of July is dedicated to sarcoma awareness. Sarcomas are cancers that can arise from bones, cartilage, tendons, muscle, fat, nerves or blood vessels. They initially may present as slow-growing masses, which can increase in size and become painful. Depending on where the mass is, it sometimes can affect the body’s functions and sensations. For example, if a mass is on the arm, it can impact strength, cause a tingling or sharp, shooting pain while affecting the nerves or compromise the blood supply. Sarcomas can affect any part of the body.
Sarcomas may be benign tissue growths, or they can be malignant and spread. If a mass is increasing in size, becoming painful and affecting function, it should be evaluated by a physician. For a suspected sarcoma-like mass, referral to a tertiary center is recommended. A multidisciplinary team is needed to devise a management plan.
If the sarcoma is localized, diagnosis is made on the pathology after resection (surgical removal). The treatment plan entails radiation, chemotherapy and/or surveillance, depending on the type of sarcoma. If the cancer is metastatic, meaning it has spread, then after a biopsy, treatment is started once the patient has seen a sarcoma specialist. One of the treatment options is chemotherapy.
Recent oncology advances have paved the way for different treatment options. Nowadays, the biopsy of the tumor can be sent for tumor mutation testing that can identify whether a targeted agent can be used. Similarly, a blood test, also known as a liquid biopsy, can be performed to get more information if there is insufficient tissue to look for mutations.
The targeted agents can be oral or intravenous medications. These medications specifically target the cancer cells, unlike chemotherapy. Also, the medications have their own special side effect profile, which must be monitored.
Furthermore, sarcomas can be genetically linked, and genetic testing is required. Other risk factors for sarcomas include:
- prior radiation treatments
- prior chemotherapy treatments
- lymphedema
- chemical exposure, including in the workplace
- exposure to viruses, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or human herpes virus 8 (HHV-8)
Additionally, because sarcoma is a rare cancer type, clinical trials are an option. In conclusion, be vigilant in monitoring your body. If you notice any abnormal masses, have them evaluated by a physician. Keep up with regular screenings and wellness exams in order to head off sarcoma and other types of cancer.
Dr. Sidra Khalid is a physician with Memorial Physician Clinics seeing patients in hematology and medical oncology. Reach her at (228) 575-1234.