Soft Tissue Sarcoma

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What is Soft Tissue Sarcoma?

Soft tissue sarcoma is a cancer that starts in the soft tissue of the body and is most commonly found in the arms, legs, chest or abdomen. The risk of soft tissue sarcoma spreading (metastasis) is higher because these cancers can more easily spread from the arms and legs to the lymph nodes. There are around 50 kinds of soft tissue sarcoma.

Spindle cell sarcoma is a term often used to describe long and narrow cancer cells. It isn’t a cancer in itself, but a term that describes diseased cells found in many types of cancer. Bone cancer is a form of sarcoma, but is limited to the bones and associated soft tissues such as cartilage.

More cancer patients choose Norton Cancer Institute than any other oncology provider in Louisville or Southern Indiana. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained specialists work with surgeons, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists and others to bring a range of opinions to bear on your case.

Norton Cancer Institute oncologists are often researchers as well. That means they’ll often have unique experience with newly approved treatments. In addition, with more than 200 clinical trials underway at any time, our providers have access to new and potentially groundbreaking treatments.

If you’ve been diagnosed with soft tissue sarcoma, you want to start getting better right away. That’s why we offer same-day appointments for newly diagnosed patients.

At Norton Cancer Institute, you’ll have a one-on-one relationship with your oncologist, surgeon, radiation oncologist or other specialist. The next cancer doctor you see will be either someone you know or someone you’ll be seeing again who knows your case.

Soft Tissue Sarcoma Symptoms

Soft tissue sarcoma patients often report a visible or painful lump or knot. Also, recurrence of a lump that has been removed could be a soft tissue sarcoma symptom. If the lump gets bigger or becomes painful, make an appointment with your health care provider. Any lump that’s deep inside a muscle should be examined by your health care provider.

Soft Tissue Sarcoma Treatment

Surgery is almost always the first method of treating soft tissue sarcomas. Sometimes, chemotherapy or radiation will be added if necessary. Soft tissue sarcomas are graded from one to five, according to how aggressive the cancer is.

Sarcoma and Connective Tissue Medical Oncology

Norton Cancer Institute

Regional Leader in Cancer Care

  • First in the world to treat a patient with a novel combination therapy for newly diagnosed acute leukemia
  • First in the world to treat a solid tumor patient with ONC-841, a novel immunotherapy drug targeting the SIGLEC-10 immune checkpoint molecule
  • Access to over 170 clinical trials, offering local patients the same leading-edge options available at top national centers
  • Nationally recognized center for early-phase research, with 23 active Phase 1 clinical trials underway
  • Patients from 20-plus U.S. states and two foreign countries have chosen Norton Cancer Institute for innovative cancer care
  • Only in Kentucky: Home to a state-of-the-art Norton Cancer Institute Genomics Lab, with support from the Norton Healthcare Foundation and Steven Vanover Foundation, enabling highly precise, genetically targeted cancer therapies
  • Gamma Tile Center of Excellence, as well as a two-time Novalis certification for setting the standard for stereotactic radiation
  • Subspecialized, board-certified oncologists leading cancer research and treatment advancements
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  • Multidisciplinary clinics to provide same-day, same-location access to multiple specialists for more convenient, coordinated care
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  • Comprehensive patient support, with five Norton Cancer Institute Resource Centers throughout Louisville and Southern Indiana, a patient navigator program, Norton Cancer Institute Behavioral Oncology Program, Norton Palliative Care Program, classes and events, art and music therapy, genetic counseling, nutrition services, financial counseling, pastoral care, and more
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