Soft Tissue Sarcoma

Adult soft tissue sarcoma is a cancer of soft tissues such as nerves, fat, muscle, blood vessels, fibrous tissues, or deep skin tissues. Although it is mostly found in the arms and legs, this cancer can be found in any part of the body, including a patient's head, neck, and trunk. Over 11,000 new cases of adult soft tissue sarcoma are diagnosed in the United States each year. The five-year survival rate varies depending on at what stage the cancer is diagnosed. Risk factors associated with adult soft tissue sarcomas include genetics, occupational exposure to radiation and certain chemicals, and past radiation cancer treatments. Adult soft tissue sarcoma symptoms include swelling or lumps; pain; stomach or intestine blockage; and gastrointestinal bleeding. The stages of adult soft tissue sarcoma range from I to IV, depending on tumor size and spread. Adult soft tissue sarcoma treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of these.