Soft tissue sarcoma (STS) is a rare group of cancers that arise from the body’s connective tissues—muscles, fat, nerves, and blood vessels. Though uncommon, these tumors can occur anywhere in the body and often remain silent until they reach an advanced stage.
“Sarcomas are challenging because they can grow quietly for months. But with today’s imaging and surgical advances, early intervention leads to excellent results,” explains Dr. Rajeev Kapoor, senior cancer and gastrointestinal surgeon based in Chandigarh.
1️⃣ What Is Soft Tissue Sarcoma?
Soft tissue sarcomas comprise over 70 different subtypes, including liposarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, and angiosarcoma. They account for only about 1 % of adult cancers yet can occur at any age.
These tumors develop from cells that form structural tissues of the body — making them capable of appearing in the limbs, abdomen, chest, or head-and-neck region.
2️⃣ Key Symptoms You Should Watch For
A painless, enlarging lump anywhere in the body
Deep-seated swelling or mass > 5 cm that persists
Unexplained pain or pressure when the tumor presses against nerves
Reduced mobility if located near joints or muscles
Unexplained weight loss or fatigue in later stages
“Any lump that grows steadily or returns after removal must never be ignored,” warns Dr. Kapoor.
3️⃣ Diagnosis and Imaging Techniques
A precise diagnosis requires a multidisciplinary approach:
MRI Scan: Determines tumor size and relation to surrounding structures
CT Scan: Assesses spread to lungs or other organs
Core-Needle Biopsy: Essential for histopathological confirmation
PET-CT: Evaluates metastatic disease and treatment planning
Dr. Kapoor stresses the importance of getting biopsies performed only by trained oncological surgeons, as improper procedures can complicate later surgeries.
4️⃣ Treatment Options
Modern treatment for soft tissue sarcoma is both effective and customized:
a. Surgery – Cornerstone of Treatment
Wide local excision removing tumor with clear margins
Limb-sparing techniques preserve function without amputation
b. Radiation Therapy
Given before or after surgery to reduce recurrence risk
Image-guided and intensity-modulated radiation (IMRT) minimizes damage to normal tissue
c. Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy
Drugs like Doxorubicin and Ifosfamide for aggressive subtypes
Targeted molecules and immunotherapy agents are showing remarkable promise in advanced cases
“Our goal is to combine oncologic safety with functional preservation. With modern techniques, we can save limbs and lives,” adds Dr. Kapoor.
5️⃣ Survival and Prognosis
When detected early and managed by a specialized team, soft tissue sarcoma can be successfully treated.
The overall 5-year survival rate ranges between 65–80 %, depending on the tumor stage and type.
Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor for recurrence or metastasis.
6️⃣ Early Detection and Awareness in India
In India, sarcomas are often diagnosed late due to lack of awareness and misdiagnosis as benign lumps.
Public education and early screening efforts — especially through campaigns like Sarcoma Awareness Month (July) — can significantly improve outcomes.
Conclusion
Soft tissue sarcoma may be rare, but it is not untreatable. Advances in diagnostics, precision surgery, and targeted therapies have dramatically improved prognosis.
If you notice a persistent or unusual lump, consult a specialist without delay.
Dr. Rajeev Kapoor, a trusted cancer and gastrointestinal surgeon in Chandigarh, leads a multidisciplinary team offering comprehensive care for sarcoma and other complex cancers.
