What Is Extraskeletal Osteosarcoma?
It is a very rare, high-grade cancer which develops from the soft tissues, and is made up of bones and cartilage forming cells. High-grade tumors are those who tend to grow and spread more quickly than low-grade tumors. Most frequently, they are developed from the soft tissues of the chest wall (ribs and shoulder blade) abdomen, pelvis, gluteal region (buttocks), and lower extremities (part of the body from the hip to the toe). Usually, it develops in adults and occurs at the site of prior radiation therapy. It shows poor prognosis, and treatment response to the chemotherapy is much poorer as compared to the primary osteosarcoma of the bone.
Disease Epidemiology
Among all the soft tissue sarcomas, its prevalence (frequency of disease) is about 1-2%. It is more common in males as compared to females, and the mean age for development of the extracellular osteosarcoma varies from 50-70 years. The ratio recorded for a male to female is 9:1. The most common site for its development is lower limb (75%; thighs and neck), followed by upper limb (15%-23% shoulder girdle), and the abdomen (retroperitoneum 17%).
Disease Etiology
There is no exact know cause for the development of extraskeletal osteosarcoma. Certain known predisposing risk factors are given below. These are;
- A genetic tendency
- Middle to old age
- Male gender
- Prior history of radiation therapy or exposure to certain radiations.
- Previous history of trauma (Injury).
Signs and Symptoms
A progressively enlarging mass under the skin, which rarely shows pain and tenderness, is the most common symptom.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are:
- Radiological and imaging techniques like CT-scan, PET-scan, MRI, and X-ray.
- FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology)
- Tumor Biopsy
- Immunohistochemistry
In most of the cases, where the tumor is not spread to the other organs, a surgical wide local resection of the tumor with adjuvant radiotherapy is the most recommended treatment option. Resection is the process of cutting out the affected part of the tissue or organ by using surgical techniques. Other treatment options are radiotherapy and multi-drug chemotherapy.
What support can we give for Extraskeletal Osteosarcoma?
Extraskeletal Osteosarcoma 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. 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 Extraskeletal Osteosarcoma, 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 for every donation received. 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. If you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
