Spindle cell sarcoma of the kidney is a very rare and aggressive type of cancer that develops from the connective tissues in the kidney rather than the kidney’s usual filtering structures. It gets its name from the shape of the cancer cells, which appear long and narrow like spindles under a microscope. This tumour can grow rapidly and has the potential to spread to nearby organs or distant parts of the body.
Cause
This type of sarcoma does not have a clear cause. Still, some patients may develop it as a result of genetic mutations or previous exposure to radiation or cancer-causing chemicals. It is more commonly diagnosed in adults and may occur without any early warning signs.
Often, patients start to experience pain in the side or back, unexplained weight loss, or blood in the urine. Because more common kidney diseases can also cause these symptoms, spindle cell sarcoma is often diagnosed at a later stage.
Diagnosis
To confirm the diagnosis, doctors usually begin with imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to look at the kidney. These scans can reveal the presence of a mass. A biopsy, in which a small sample of the tissue is taken and examined under a microscope, is required to determine the exact type of cancer cells.
Treatment
Treatment for spindle cell sarcoma of the kidney usually starts with surgery to remove the entire affected kidney. If the cancer has spread or cannot be fully removed, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may also be used. However, because this cancer type is aggressive, it may not always respond well to traditional chemotherapy. In some cases, clinical trials or targeted therapies might be considered.
Prognosis
The outlook for patients with spindle cell sarcoma depends on how early the disease is detected and how much it has spread. If found early and surgically removed completely, the chances of survival are better. However, because the tumour tends to grow quickly, close follow-up and additional treatment may be needed even after surgery. Regular scans and medical check-ups are essential to monitor for recurrence or metastasis.
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