What is Langerhans Cell Sarcoma?
It is uncommon cancer or malignancy of Langerhans cells, identified by the involvement of multiple organs of the body such as liver, lung, spleen, lymph nodes, and bones along with the feature of severe progression of the cancerous growth. Langerhans cell sarcoma (LCS) is an abnormal growth of the Langerhans cells that may occur in the skin, bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, liver, and lung. Langerhans cells (LC) are tissue-resident dendritic cells (foreign body and foreign harmful microbes like bacteria viruses and other harmful agents detecting cells) of the skin. Langerhans cells are present in the outermost layer of the skin, the mucosal layer of the mouth, the foreskin of the penis, the epithelial layer of the vagina, the endothelial layer of blood vessels and in the lymph nodes. Langerhans cells play a part in the immune system of the body.
Disease Epidemiology
Langerhans cell sarcoma (LCS) is an uncommon malignancy with an occurrence of 0.2 per 10,000,000 populations. According to a retrospective research study of 52 LCS patients, the average age at diagnosis was 62(range from 19-90) years. The overall survival rate (OS) of 1 year was 62%, and the average OS was 19 months.
Signs And Symptoms
Signs and symptoms vary according to the involvement of organs; in most cases a long-standing palpable mass was observed which later becomes symptomatic and ulcerated. Langerhans cell sarcoma (LCS) is known to be a type of cancer of high grade that can occur with a single dermal (skin) lesion or with significant systemic involvement (involvement of multiple systems of the body). Multiple site involvement is usually seen. In the case of distant metastasis of the tumor, the patient often felt B symptoms these are;
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
Diagnosis And Treatment
Following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis.
- Radiological examination like CT-san, MRI, X-Ray, and USG.
- Cytology & Histopathology of the tumor specimens
- Immunophenotype
Treatment options are;
- The wide surgical local excision of the tumor is the most potent treatment option with adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy, where the involvement of distant organs or tissues is evident.
- Bone marrow transplant seems to be the most effective treatment, particularly in the case of disseminated disease.
What support can we give for Langerhans Cell Sarcoma?
Langerhans Cell Sarcoma is a 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 Langerhans Cell Sarcoma, 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.
