What is a Malignant Granular Cell Tumour?
A malignant granular cell tumour is an unusual, high-grade tumour that arises from Schwann nerve cells and usually affects the thighs, arms, legs, chest, and abdomen. It tends to spread to distant parts of the body. The prognosis is poor (the probable course of the disease) with a mortality rate of 39% after 3 years.
What are Schwann cells?
Schwann cells are cells that form a protective myelin sheath around nerves that transmit brain signals to distant parts of the body.
Disease Epidemiology
Malignant granular cell tumours are rare tumours and account for only 1-2% of all granular cell tumours. It is more common in females than males.
Disease Causes
There is no well-known cause; however, certain genetic and hereditary factors may be responsible for the development of malignant granular cell tumours. Signs and symptoms The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- A noticeable mass in the thigh, arm, leg, chest, or abdomen
- This mass or tumour usually does not show any symptoms
- Enlarged/swollen lymph nodes
Diagnosis
The flowing diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis these are:
- Imaging diagnostic techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, and PET scans can be used to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Tumor Biopsy
Treatment
Complete Surgical removal of the tumor along with the removal of nearby lymph nodes is the main treatment option. Other treatment options are radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The choice of the correct treatment option depends on several factors such as the nature of the cancer cells, the size, extent, and metastasis of the tumour, the patient’s age, the patient’s health status, the patient’s body weight, etc.
What support can we give for Malignant Granular Cell Tumour?
Malignant Granular Cell Tumour 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 a rare cancer such as Malignant Granular Cell Tumour, 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.
