Sarcoma (sar-com-a) is a malignant tumor found in muscle, bone, cartilage, and fiborous tissue. Sarcoma is named according to the type of tissue in which it begins to grow. According to the American Cancer Society, about forty percent of cases occur in the legs, fifteen percent occur in the arms and hands, fifteen percent in the head and neck area, and thirty percent in the trunk. Sarcomas are not common but can be found in both adults and children. Researchers do not fully understand the cause of sarcomas. Recent studies suggest exposure to herbicides, vinyl chloride, and viruses may help cause these cancers. The first sign of a sarcoma may be a painless lump that grows and causes pressure against nearby nerves and muscles. Many such lumps are benign, not cancerous. Surgical biopsy (by-op-see) is the only reliable way to tell whether a tumor is cancerous or not. If you find a lump that does not go away or grows, or for more information on sarcomas, contact your health care provider.
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