What it is
Treatment is planned by a specialist sarcoma team and usually includes surgery to remove the tumour, often with radiotherapy and sometimes chemotherapy.
Regular follow-up scans are needed after treatment.
Common signs
- A lump that is getting bigger
- A lump larger than 5cm
- A lump deep in the muscle
- Pain or swelling
- Tummy pain or a feeling of fullness if in the tummy
How it is usually diagnosed
- Ultrasound and MRI scans
- A biopsy
- CT or PET scans to check for spread
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Scan reports
- Biopsy and pathology reports
- Sarcoma team letters
- Treatment plans and follow-up schedule
Questions to ask your doctor
- What type and grade of sarcoma is it?
- What treatment do you recommend?
- How often will I need scans afterwards?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- A lump that is growing quickly, or is larger than a golf ball: see a GP soon and ask about an urgent referral
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.