Soft tissue sarcoma

Treatment option may be applied based on the nature of the tumor because there are various types of soft tissue sarcoma. 

Imaging tests

The doctor may order the following diagnostic imaging tests:

• X-rays
• Computerized Tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan 

Biopsy

Biopsy is done to determine the surgery type needed.

• Core needle biopsy. The doctor may take a sample portion of the tumor to examine using a small tube or needle.
• Surgical biopsy. Surgery may be done to remove a bigger portion of the tumor or it may also totally remove the tumor.

The pathologist will examine the samples taken through biopsy to find out the type and aggressiveness of the cancer. 

Treatment

The tumor size, type and the area where the tumor is located will determine which treatment may be performed. 

Surgery 

Surgery may totally remove the tumor and some parts of the healthy structures around it. Radiation and chemotherapy can be done if soft tissue sarcoma is located in the arms or legs to avoid amputation by decreasing the size of the tumor. 

Radiation therapy

High powered beam of energy is used to treat cancer before surgery to shrink the tumor and make it accessible for removal, during surgery to administer high dose radiation directly to the affected area, and after surgery to remove cancer cells that remain. 

Chemotherapy

Medication are administered orally or intravenously to kill cancer cells. 

Targeted drug treatment

Treatment by administering medications that specifically targets the specific cell characteristics that causes soft tissue sarcoma. It is commonly used in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs).