What is the first treatment tried for soft tissue sarcoma?

Soft tissue sarcoma is a group of cancers that can begin in fat, muscle, connective tissue, blood vessels or other soft tissues. A biopsy identifies the subtype and grade, while scans show its depth, relationship to nearby structures and whether it has spread. These details guide whether surgery can remove the tumour while preserving movement and function.

Radiotherapy may be given before or after surgery to treat the tumour region. Chemotherapy may be discussed for selected subtypes, larger or more advanced tumours, or when medicine-based treatment could help control disease elsewhere. The sequence is decided by a specialist sarcoma team.

Ask whether the biopsy was reviewed by a sarcoma specialist and what the scan shows about nerves, blood vessels, bone and nearby organs. Do not massage, squeeze or repeatedly needle a growing lump unless instructed. Bring details about its growth, pain, weakness, numbness and effect on movement, and ask how treatment may affect function.

Arrange prompt assessment for a rapidly enlarging lump, new weakness or numbness, severe pain, loss of limb function, or swelling with a change in skin colour. Seek urgent help for sudden loss of movement, severe bleeding or breathing difficulty when the tumour is near the chest or neck.

What subtype and grade does the biopsy show? Can surgery remove the tumour while preserving function? Would radiotherapy be given before or after surgery? Is chemotherapy relevant for this subtype and stage?