What is an Askin Tumour?
An Askin Tumour is a rare type of cancer that develops in the soft tissues of the chest wall, often affecting the ribs. It is part of the Ewing sarcoma family, a group of cancers that form in bones or soft tissues.
This tumour mostly affects children, teenagers, and young adults, with the highest risk occurring in the late teens or early 20s. It is more common in males than females.
What Causes It?
The exact cause is unknown, but Askin tumours are linked to a genetic mutation called t(11;22) translocation, which causes abnormal cell growth in the chest wall.
Signs and Symptoms
Since Askin tumours grow in the chest wall, they can affect breathing and chest function, leading to:
- Chest pain
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath (difficulty breathing)
- Swelling or a lump in the chest
- A noticeable mass in the chest
How is Askin Tumour Diagnosed?
Doctors use a combination of tests to diagnose Askin tumours, including:
- Physical Examination: A doctor checks for chest swelling, lumps, or breathing difficulties.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans or MRIs help determine the size, location, and extent of the tumour.
- tumour Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken to confirm if the tumour is cancerous.
- Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA): If the tumour is easy to reach, a fine needle may be used to extract a sample.
- Immunohistochemistry & Genetic Testing: Special tests confirm the presence of specific genetic mutations linked to Askin tumours.
Treatment Options
- Surgery: The primary treatment is surgically removing the tumour.
- Chemotherapy & Radiation Therapy: Used before or after surgery to shrink the tumour and destroy remaining cancer cells.
What’s the Outlook?
Askin tumours are rare but serious, especially in young people. Early detection and a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation offer the best chance for successful treatment.
If you or a loved one experience chest pain, trouble breathing, or a lump in the chest, see a doctor as soon as possible. Early treatment makes a big difference!
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