Other Sarcomas

Origins and Causes

There are over 100 different subtypes of sarcomas. An non-exhaustive list of subtypes of sarcomas not separately described on our website include alveolar soft-part sarcoma, clear cell sarcoma, hemangioendothelioma, small cell undifferentiated sarcoma, intimal sarcoma, and unclassified sarcoma. Each subtype on this list represents less than 1% of all sarcomas. Some subtypes can present in adolescents and young adults, while others present in older individuals.

Symptoms and Signs

These other subtypes of sarcomas can occur in any part of the body. They most often present as a progressive, painless mass. Some of these subtypes can be aggressive cancers that can cause metastases, mainly to the lungs.

Diagnosis

When a sarcoma is suspected, the initial evaluation includes either a CT scan or MRI. The diagnosis is made by biopsy of the suspected area. The investigation may be completed with a chest CT scan and a PET scan.

Treatment

When a sarcoma is localized, the preferred treatment is surgery to remove all of it. Regularly, radiation therapy before or after surgery is necessary.

In the case where metastases are found, chemotherapy is offered with the goal of controlling symptoms and disease progression. The choice of agents depends on the diagnosed subtype of sarcoma and may include: doxorubicin-ifosfamide, gemcitabine-docetaxel, and vinorelbine. Clinical trials may also be explored.

Follow-up

After surgery, sarcoma patients will be closely monitored due to the risk of recurrence (when the cancer returns).