sarcoma
Pronunciation: sar-KO-mah
A type of cancer that develops in connective tissues such as bone, muscle, fat, or blood vessels.
Full Definition
Sarcomas are malignant tumors arising from mesenchymal tissues, including bone, cartilage, muscle, fat, blood vessels, and fibrous tissues. Unlike carcinomas which arise from epithelial cells, sarcomas originate from the body's supporting structures. There are over 50 different sarcoma subtypes, each with distinct characteristics, behaviors, and treatment approaches. Sarcomas can occur anywhere in the body but are most common in the extremities and retroperitoneum. They represent less than 1% of all cancers but are proportionally more common in children and young adults. Diagnosis requires specialized pathology expertise, often including immunohistochemistry and molecular testing for accurate subtype classification.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify the sarcoma subtype when known, as treatment varies significantly by histology.
In Context
- "The pathology confirmed high-grade pleomorphic sarcoma of the thigh." — Pathology report
- "Retroperitoneal sarcoma requires specialized surgical expertise for optimal resection." — Surgical consultation