What is Angiosarcoma?
Angiosarcoma is a type of blood cancer that arises from the cells lining the blood and lymph vessels in the body. It can develop anywhere in the body, but most commonly affects the skin, breasts, spleen, and other deep tissues of the body. Angiosarcoma, if it develops under the skin, is called cutaneous angiosarcoma and is the most common type of angiosarcoma among all types of angiosarcoma. Cutaneous angiosarcoma most often develops on the skin of the skull (scalp) and face. It accounts for approximately 25% of deep tissue angiosarcomas and approximately 8% of breast tissue angiosarcomas.Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause, however, there is an association between lymphedema (it is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the tissues due to blockage of the lymphatic vessel and cause swelling) and the development of angiosarcoma The exposure to certain types of radiation or radiation therapy and certain chemicals such as vinyl chloride, arsenic, and thorium chloride, are risk factors for angiosarcoma.Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of angiosarcoma depend upon the type and site of origin of cancer.- Bruise like purple-coloured raised area of the skin
- This purple-coloured lesion can grow with time
- Swelling around the lesion
- Bleeding from the lesion on scratching
- Angiosarcoma of the liver or heart can often cause pain
- It can also develop as a soft palpable mass or lump
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis these are- Diagnostic imaging techniques such as USG, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan can be used to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Tumour biopsy and histopathology
Treatment
Surgical excision (removal or cutting of the tumour tissues through surgery) of the tumour is the main treatment option. Other treatment options are chemotherapy and radiation therapy.What Support can we Give for Angiosarcoma?
Angiosarcoma is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Angiosarcoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
