What is primary cardiac angiosarcoma?
Primary cardiac angiosarcoma is a rare type of soft tissue sarcoma that arises from the cells that make up the blood vessels of the heart. Primary cardiac angiosarcoma is an extremely rare type of tumour that is malignant (cancerous) in nature and tends to invade local tissues and metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body. It is commonly developed in the right upper chamber of the heart also called the right atrium.Disease Epidemiology
It is a rare tumour with an incidence of 0.0001- 0.030%. It is more common in men than women. It mainly affects people under the age of 65. The prognosis is poor; the 5-year survival rate is 14%.Disease Etiology
There is no well-known cause, however, certain genetic mutations are considered responsible.Signs and symptoms
Signs and symptoms depend on the location or part of the origination heart sarcoma. Common signs and symptoms in patients with cardiac sarcoma are- Difficulty in breathing on exertion or any physical activity, or during sleep
- Syncope (Sudden loss of consciousness)
- Lightheadedness
- Palpitations (sensation of feeling your heartbeat)
- Cough
- Coughing up blood or blood-stained mucous
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Weight loss
- Pain in joints
- The feeling of constant tiredness
- Swelling of neck veins, legs, abdomen and ankles
- Sudden death due to cardiac arrest
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- Echocardiogram (Ultrasonography of the heart)
- Angiography
- X-ray Chest
- MRI of heart
- CBC (complete blood count)
Treatment
Removal of the tumour through surgery is the main treatment option.What Support can we Give for Primary cardiac angiosarcoma?
Primary cardiac 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 Primary cardiac 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.
