Sarkom

Sarkom, or sarcoma, is a group of cancers that develop from mesenchymal tissues such as bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, or connective tissue. They are distinct from carcinomas and are relatively uncommon in adults but occur across ages, especially in children and young adults. Sarcomas are divided into soft tissue sarcomas and bone sarcomas.

Soft tissue sarcomas originate in fat, muscle, nerves, fibrous tissue, or blood vessels. Common subtypes include liposarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma. They usually present as a growing, painless lump; pain may occur if nearby structures are affected. Diagnosis combines MRI or CT imaging with histological biopsy. Staging considers tumor size, depth, grade, and metastatic spread.

Bone sarcomas arise from bone and include osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, and chondrosarcoma. They often affect adolescents or young adults and present with bone pain and swelling. Diagnosis uses X-ray, MRI, CT, and biopsy. Treatment typically mixes surgery with chemotherapy; radiotherapy is used in selected cases. The goal is complete tumor removal with limb- or function-preserving procedures when possible.

Prognosis varies by subtype, grade, stage, and location. Localized disease has the best outcomes with proper multidisciplinary management. Metastasis commonly occurs to the lungs. Risk factors include certain genetic syndromes and prior radiation exposure. Follow-up focuses on recurrence and distant spread.