Liposarcoma - Maximed Turkey

Liposarcoma

Liposarcoma is a type of cancerous tumor that develops from the connective tissues in the deepest layers of fat. The fat cells that make up these connective tissues multiply and create one or more tumors that grow into malignant masses. Though it's less common than other types of sarcoma, it can be fatal if not promptly treated.

A liposarcoma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the fatty tissues in the body, most commonly in the limbs. It can also develop in other areas containing fatty tissue such as the breast, soft tissue, and abdomen. The specific area where it develops depends on which type of liposarcoma is present.

Because there are different types of liposarcoma, symptoms, and prognosis will vary. However, because fat cells release adipose tissue toxins (TAT), it is common to experience symptoms such as fatigue, inability to perform daily activities, and joint pain.

Though still rare compared to other types of sarcoma (1.6% of all diagnoses), the number of reported cases has increased since the 1970s. This is likely due to an increase in medical awareness and improved diagnostic technologies.

Liposarcoma is mostly found in adults 50–60 years old. However, it can occur at any age, including newborns. Less common are liposarcomas that affect younger people between 20–40 years old.

Another uncommon form of liposarcoma is myxoid liposarcoma which accounts for about 4% of all types of sarcomas, but mostly affects women aged 20-40 years old. These tumors are usually benign and have a better prognosis than other forms of this cancer.

Liposarcoma is derived from the Greek word "lipós", meaning "fat", and sarcoma, meaning "tumor."

The best method of diagnosis is through imaging. The specific diagnostic techniques used will be based on which part of the body is affected. If possible, treatment should be delayed until liposarcoma has been ruled out.

A chest x-ray can help determine the presence of a tumor in other organs. An ultrasound will show whether tumors are originating in other parts of the body, such as in soft tissue or other fatty deposits.

CT scan can determine whether a tumor is present in the chest, abdominal cavity, or elsewhere in the body. MRI can help determine if a tumor has spread to other parts of the body, including bone or brain.

If a liposarcoma has been indicated from imaging tests, a biopsy can be needed to confirm the diagnosis and differentiate between malignant and benign tumors. In some cases where it's unclear whether a liposarcoma is malignant or benign, it may be necessary for further tests to differentiate between them.

Frequently Asked Questions on Liposarcoma

What is The Survival Rate For Liposarcoma?

Though there isn't a cure for liposarcoma, it can be treated successfully. The average survival rate is 24–46 months, depending on the specific form of cancer. However, even when treatments don't eliminate tumors, they can still slow tumor growth and lead to increased life expectancy.

Where Does Liposarcoma Most Commonly Occur?

Liposarcomas mostly affect areas with high amounts of fat deposits such as the arms and legs. More rare cases form in other areas that contain a larger amount of fatty tissue such as the breast, brain, or among organs in other parts of the body.

Liposarcoma is most common among men than women, particularly after age 40. It is more commonly found in people with a history of smoking than those who don't, though liposarcomas can develop in people who smoke or don't smoke.

Liposarcomas rarely form in newborns or children except for very rare cases. Liposarcoma is also relatively uncommon among adolescents, occurring more often between 20–40 years old.

What Causes Liposarcoma?

Several factors could increase the risk of developing cancer within fatty tissues. These include family history, exposure to certain chemicals and radiation, and having a condition called hemangiopericytoma.

Since liposarcomas accumulate a large number of adipose tissue toxins (TAT), they also tend to have many symptoms associated with TAT toxicity. These include systemic toxicity, cardiotoxicity, central nervous system toxicity, and neoplasms. Other signs of liposarcoma include fatigue, joint pain, and weight loss.

Liposarcoma is not considered to be hereditary, but it is more common among people with a family history of cancer.