Fibrosarcoma: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Kovvuru Bhaskar Reddy , Oncologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Fibrosarcoma is a rare malignant soft tissue cancer that develops from fibrous connective tissue, most commonly affecting the arms, legs, or trunk. It often presents as a painless, slow-growing lump but may cause pain or reduced mobility as it enlarges. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment, including surgery and other cancer therapies, can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrence.

What Are the Types of Fibrosarcoma?

Fibrosarcoma is classified based on the age of onset and the location of the tumour.

Infantile fibrosarcoma
Adult fibrosarcoma
Soft tissue fibrosarcoma
Bone fibrosarcoma

What are the Symptoms of Fibrosarcoma?

Identifying the symptoms of fibrosarcoma can be challenging due to its rarity and the non-specific nature of its manifestations. Generally, the symptoms depend on the tumour's location and size.

Common Symptoms

Lump or Swelling: The most noticeable symptom is often a painless lump or swelling in the affected area. Over time, this lump may become painful as it grows and presses against nearby structures.
Pain and Tenderness: While the initial lump may be painless, as the tumour grows, it can lead to pain and tenderness in the surrounding tissues.
Restricted Movement: If the tumour is located near joints or muscles, it may restrict movement and cause stiffness.
Neurological Symptoms: In rare cases where the tumour presses against nerves, patients may experience neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness.

What are the Causes of Fibrosarcoma?

The exact cause of fibrosarcoma is not fully known, but several factors may increase the risk of developing this cancer. These include genetic predisposition, where inherited or acquired gene changes affect how cells grow and divide.

Previous exposure to radiation therapy is another important risk factor, as it can damage healthy cells and lead to cancer over time. In some cases, fibrosarcoma may develop from existing soft tissue tumors. Additionally, spontaneous mutations in genes that regulate cell growth can cause cells to multiply uncontrollably, leading to tumor formation.

When to See a Doctor for Fibrosarcoma?

Consult Oncologist or Orthopedic if you notice a persistent lump, swelling, or unexplained pain. Early evaluation is important to prevent tumor growth and spread, especially when symptoms interfere with movement or daily activities.

You should see a doctor if you have:

Growing lump or swelling in any part of the body
Pain or stiffness affecting movement
Numbness or weakness in the affected area

Get medical help immediately if:

Rapid increase in tumor size
Severe pain or loss of function
Signs of nerve involvement or compression

These could be signs of a serious complication like a Fibrosarcoma, which needs urgent care.

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How is Fibrosarcoma Diagnosed?

A thorough diagnostic process is essential for confirming fibrosarcoma. It typically involves a combination of imaging studies and biopsy.

Imaging Studies: Techniques such as MRI, CT scans, and X-rays test are used to assess the tumour's size, location, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Biopsy: A biopsy is necessary to obtain a sample of the tumour tissue. The sample is then examined under a microscope to identify the herringbone pattern characteristic of fibrosarcoma.

Fibrosarcoma Pathology Outlines

The pathology report provides detailed information about the tumour, including its size, grade, and mitotic rate, which are crucial for determining the prognosis and treatment plan. The presence of a herringbone pattern is a key diagnostic feature.

How is Fibrosarcoma Treated?

The treatment of fibrosarcoma involves a multidisciplinary approach, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. The choice of treatment depends on the tumour's size, location, and stage.

Fibrosarcoma Surgery

Surgery is the primary treatment for fibrosarcoma, aiming to remove the tumour completely with clear margins to reduce the risk of recurrence. In some cases, limb-sparing surgery is possible, but amputation may be necessary if the tumour is extensive.

Fibrosarcoma Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy may be used in conjunction with surgery to kill remaining cancer cells or as a primary treatment for inoperable tumours. The effectiveness of chemotherapy varies, and ongoing research aims to improve outcomes for fibrosarcoma patients.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is often employed to shrink the tumour before surgery or to eliminate residual cancer cells post-surgery. It can also be used palliatively to relieve symptoms in advanced cases.

Emerging Treatments

Research into targeted therapies and immunotherapies offers hope for more effective treatments with fewer side effects. Clinical trials are ongoing to explore these innovative approaches.

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What is the Prognosis and Follow-up for Fibrosarcoma?

The prognosis of fibrosarcoma depends on factors such as tumor size, location, grade, and how early it is diagnosed and treated. Early detection and complete removal of the tumor generally improve outcomes.

Regular follow-up is essential to monitor for recurrence or spread, typically involving physical examinations and imaging tests. Continuous monitoring helps ensure timely management if the cancer returns or progresses.

Prognosis

The prognosis for fibrosarcoma depends on several factors, including the tumour's size, location, and the patient's overall health. Early detection and complete surgical removal significantly improve outcomes. However, fibrosarcoma has a tendency to recur, making regular follow-up essential.

Regular Monitoring

After treatment, regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor for recurrence or metastasis. This typically involves periodic imaging studies and physical examinations.