Soft Tissue Sarcoma Symptoms & Signs
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What Are the Symptoms of Soft Tissue Sarcoma?
Like many forms of cancer, soft tissue sarcoma symptoms may appear at a more advanced stage of the disease, or you might not notice any symptoms at all. Symptoms, if they are present, will also vary depending on the type of sarcoma and its location.
If you notice symptoms that are known to occur with soft tissue sarcomas, they may be the result of less serious problems. However, if any of these symptoms last more than two weeks, then you should consult your doctor, who will then conduct tests to be sure that you receive the correct diagnosis as soon as possible.
Signs of soft tissue sarcoma include the following:
- A lump or mass is the most common soft tissue sarcoma sign. The lump will form in the area in which the tumor is growing, and there may be some pain if it is pressing on a nerve or muscle. Even if the lump isn’t painful, if it continues to grow in size, or if it is located deep within an extremity or body cavity, consult your doctor.
- Uncomfortable swelling is another sign of soft tissue sarcoma, especially when it is located in the arms and legs.
- Limited mobility can be a symptom of soft tissue sarcoma. Some tumors can restrict motion, such as those found in the hip, knee, shoulder or hands.
- Skin lesions can occur when a sarcoma tumor breaks through the skin.
Other symptoms may be signs of soft tissue sarcoma, because a sarcoma tumor can form almost anywhere in the body, and can therefore affect a variety of organs.
For example, sarcomas in the abdomen may cause abdominal pain, vomiting or constipation, while sarcomas in the uterus may cause vaginal bleeding and/or abdominal pain. With gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), you may feel full after eating only very small meals, or you may vomit blood or have dark bowel movements.
NOTE: These symptoms may be attributed to a number of conditions other than cancer. It is important to consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis.
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