What Is Sarcoma?

Sarcoma is a type of cancer that begins in the connective tissue of the body.

This includes:

It's different from other cancers, which are usually carcinomas that start in the tissue cells or organ lining.

Sarcomas are rare in adults, making up about 1 percent of cancers. But, they are more common in children, making up about 15 percent of cancers.

The cause of sarcoma is often unknown, but age and genetics seem to play a role in the disease. Previous radiation therapy also increases your risk.

Depending on the location and stage of the tumor, doctors often treat sarcoma with a combination of:

Types of Sarcoma

Sarcoma can start in any location in the body, and there are more than 50 distinct types depending on the tissue involved.

Common types of sarcoma include:

Bone/soft tissue sarcoma forms in soft tissues like blood vessels, muscle, or fat.
Osteosarcoma forms in bone.
Ewing sarcoma is a type of childhood cancer that forms in bone and soft tissues.
Soft tissue sarcoma begins in the muscle, fat, fibrous tissue, blood vessels, or other supporting tissues of the body.
Kaposi’s sarcoma forms in the skin, mucus membranes, lymph nodes, skin, and other organs.
Leiomyosarcoma forms in the smooth muscle cells of the body.

This streamlined sarcoma care brings together experts in:

Even if you've received sarcoma screening or care at another center, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center has treatment options for you.

If you would like to learn more about sarcoma cancer care at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, please call us at 412-647-2811.