What is Ewing’s Sarcoma?

Ewing’s sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that usually affects the bones but can also occur in soft tissues, such as muscles and nerves. According to a sarcoma cancer doctor in Kolkata, it arises from primitive nerve cells and is characterised by a specific genetic abnormality known as a translocation, which involves the exchange of genetic material between two chromosomes. This results in the fusion of two genes, EWSR1 and FLI1, which produce an abnormal protein that drives the growth of cancer cells.

What are the symptoms of Ewing’s Sarcoma?

Some common symptoms of this cancer have been listed below by Ewing’s Sarcoma doctor in Kolkata.

1. Pain
2. Swelling or lump
3. Bone fracture
4. Fever
5. Fatigue
6. Limited mobility
7. Weight loss

Causes of Ewing’s Sarcoma

Researchers have identified a few risk factors that may increase the chances of developing this cancer. These include:

1. Genetic factors: Ewing’s sarcoma has been associated with certain genetic mutations, such as changes in the EWSR1 and FLI1 genes. These mutations can affect the normal growth and development of cells and may lead to the formation of cancerous cells.

2. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals and radiation may increase the risk of developing Ewing’s sarcoma. For example, studies have shown that individuals exposed to high levels of ionizing radiation, such as those used in radiation therapy, may have a higher risk of developing Ewing’s sarcoma.

3. Age and gender: Ewing’s sarcoma is more common in children and young adults, particularly those between the ages of 10 and 20. It also affects males more often than females.

4. Bone disorders: Individuals with certain bone disorders, such as Paget’s disease, may have a higher risk of developing Ewing’s sarcoma.

Treatments of Ewing’s Sarcoma

Treatment for Ewing’s sarcoma typically involves a combination of chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.

1. Chemotherapy: As per the best chemotherapy doctor in Kolkata, it is usually the first line of treatment for Ewing’s sarcoma. It involves the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy is often given before surgery or radiation therapy to shrink the tumour and make it easier to remove. It may also be given after radiation therapy to destroy any remaining cancer cells.

2. Radiation therapy: This therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells, or it may be used as the primary treatment, if surgery is not an option.

3. Targeted therapy: In some cases, targeted therapy may be used to treat Ewing’s sarcoma. This involves the use of drugs that specifically target certain molecules or proteins that are involved in the spread and growth of cancer cells.

4. Surgery: Surgery is often used to remove the tumour and any surrounding tissue that may be affected by cancer. In some cases, amputation of a limb may be necessary. In other cases, limb-salvage surgery may be performed to remove the tumour while preserving the affected limb as much as possible.