What are liposarcomas?

According to a sarcoma cancer doctor in Kolkata, liposarcomas are a type of cancer that originates from fat cells, typically within the soft tissue of the body. They are classified as sarcomas, which are tumours that arise from connective tissue, such as bone, muscle, cartilage, and fat.

Liposarcomas can occur in various parts of the body, including the limbs, retroperitoneum (the area behind the abdominal cavity), and the head and neck region. They can be categorized into different subtypes based on their specific characteristics, such as the location of the tumour and its histological appearance under the microscope.

What are the symptoms of liposarcoma?

As the tumour grows larger, it can cause various signs and symptoms, depending on its location and extent. Some of the common symptoms of liposarcoma have been discussed below by a liposarcoma cancer doctor in Kolkata.

1. A visible or palpable lump or swelling
2. Pain or discomfort
3. Limited mobility
4. Numbness or tingling
5. Weight loss and fatigue

Causes of liposarcoma cancer

Some of the factors that may increase your risk of developing liposarcoma include:

1. Age: Liposarcoma is more common in middle-aged and older adults, but it can occur at any age.

2. Inherited genetic mutations: Certain genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome, may increase the risk of developing liposarcoma.

3. Radiation exposure: People who get radiation therapy for other types of cancer may have an increased risk of developing liposarcoma in the radiation-exposed area.

4. Previous surgery: People who have undergone previous surgery to remove a lipoma (benign fatty tumour) may have an increased risk of developing liposarcoma in the same area.

5. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals or toxins, such as vinyl chloride, may increase the risk of developing liposarcoma.

Treatments of liposarcoma cancer

The main treatment options for liposarcoma include:

1. Radiation therapy: According to the best oncologist in Kolkata, this therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours. It may be used before or after surgery, based on the location and size of your tumour. This therapy may also be used to relieve pain or other symptoms associated with advanced or recurrent liposarcoma.

2. Chemotherapy: It uses drugs to kill cancerous cells throughout the body. It is usually reserved for advanced or metastatic liposarcoma that cannot be removed surgically or has spread to other parts of the body. It may be given alone or with radiation therapy.

3. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target the genetic or molecular abnormalities that drive the growth and spread of cancer cells. Some targeted therapies are available for certain subtypes of liposarcoma, such as dedifferentiated liposarcoma and myxoid liposarcoma.

4. Surgery: Surgery helps remove as much of the tumour as possible while preserving surrounding tissues and organs. In some cases, amputation may be necessary to remove the entire tumour. Surgery may be followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy to reduce the risk of recurrence.