Bone Cancer Inquiry: Ewing Sarcoma?
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Extraosseous Ewing Sarcoma (EES) is a rare and aggressive type of tumor that primarily affects the soft tissues of the trunk, limbs, retroperitoneum, and paravertebral regions. Unlike its name suggests, EES does not always originate in bones.
Ewing sarcoma is part of a group of tumors known as the Ewing family of tumors, which account for roughly 2% of all childhood cancers and approximately 70% of tumors in this family. While EES is a rare type of bone cancer, it can also begin outside of the bones in the body's soft tissues, such as muscle, fat, blood vessels, and nerves.
People with EES may experience various symptoms, including localized pain and swelling, systemic signs such as weight loss and fever, and potential neurologic symptoms if nerves are involved. These symptoms often relate to local tumor effects such as swelling and pain, accompanied by systemic signs reflecting malignancy.
Ewing sarcoma is more common in children and young adults, with the majority of cases occurring during the teenage years. However, Extraosseous Ewing sarcoma is more common in people over the age of 35 years or under 5 years. In the United States, around 200-250 children and adolescents may be diagnosed with an Ewing family tumor each year.
Two-thirds of people with an Ewing family tumor will survive long-term, for more than 5 years. Treatments for Ewing sarcoma may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. It is essential to note that Ewing sarcoma is more common in males than females.
While the exact cause of Ewing sarcoma is unknown, changes in the DNA of cells may lead to bone cells becoming cancerous, resulting in Ewing sarcoma. Benign tumors can also occur in the bone, such as osteomas, osteoblastomas, and osteochondromas.
In summary, Extraosseous Ewing Sarcoma primarily affects soft tissues of the trunk, limbs, retroperitoneum, and paravertebral regions, with symptoms including localized pain and swelling, systemic signs such as weight loss and fever, and potential neurologic symptoms if nerves are involved. Ewing sarcoma is a rare but aggressive type of tumor that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Science continues to delve into medical-conditions like bonecancer, such as Extraosseous Ewing Sarcoma, to understand its origin and develop effective treatment strategies. Despite Ewing sarcoma being part of the cancer family, it's critical to differentiate it from other health-and-wellness issues like benign bone tumors, such as osteomas and osteoblastomas, to provide precise and timely care.
