DEAR DR. GOTT: What is peripheral nerve sheath spindle cell sarcoma? Is it a cancer you get if you have had radiation therapy for a tumor? What is the treatment? What is the prognosis?
DEAR READER: Sarcomas are a less common form of cancer and come in two types: bone and soft tissue. There are various forms of benign (non-cancerous) bone and soft tissue tumors; however, when the term sarcoma is used, it is because the tumor is malignant (cancerous). Common sarcomas (also sometimes called malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors) include neurofibrosarcomas, neurogenic sarcomas, and malignant schwannomas.
Spindle cell tumors and spindle cell sarcomas are named for the appearance of their cells under a microscope. They can be carcinaomas, sarcomas or sarcomatoids (which look like sarcomas but aren’t).
When taken together, this leads me to believe that you are talking about a malignant soft-tissue sarcoma with spindle cells. That being said and because I am not an oncologist (cancer specialist), I could be wrong. If you received this diagnosis, your physician is your best source for information. If a loved one or friend recently told you that this was his or her diagnosis, there is no shame in asking that person about it. If they were comfortable enough to tell you, they are likely comfortable enough to help you to understand what it means. It may even be somewhat therapeutic to have someone to discuss this situation with, to share concerns, to explain what’s going on and ease the emotional burdens that cancer can cause.
Sarcomas, in general, can develop following radiation exposure from previous cancer treatment; however, this accounts for less than 5% of sarcomas. Others at increased risk include those with certain genetic conditions, a damaged lymph system, and those exposed to some chemicals. The type of sarcoma depends on the risk factors present.
Treatment is similar to that of other types of cancer and includes surgical removal, radiation and chemotherapy. Factors that come into play when deciding which course of action to take include the stage of the cancer at diagnosis, the location and size of the tumor(s), and the overall health of the patient. Another aspect to keep in mind is that while some cancers can be treated and destroyed, others cannot. Some individuals live with managed cancer for many years.
Clinical trials of new medication or medical procedures may be available for those who meet certain criteria, which varies depending on what the researchers are studying. Individuals interested in learning more about sarcomas can do so on line at the American Cancer Society’s website, www.cancer.org.