As the tumor grows, it may cause other symptoms, such as pain or soreness, as it presses against nearby nerves and muscles. The only reliable way to determine whether a soft tissue tumor is benign or malignant is through a surgical biopsy. Therefore, all soft tissue lumps that persist or grow should be biopsied. During this procedure, a docto r makes an incision and removes a sample of tumor tissue, which is then examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. In general, the type of sarcoma is not as important in selecting treatment as are its size, location, extent, and grade.
Surgery is a common treatment for soft tissue sarcomas.
When appropriate, radiation therapy used before or after conservative surgery has been as effective as the more radical surgery used in the past. Detailed treatment information is available through PDQ, a widely available National Cancer Institute database, or from the Cancer Information Service. They can answer questions in English and Spanish and can send free printed material. In addition, CIS offices serve specific geographic areas and have informatio n about cancer-related services and resources in their region.