Non-sarcoma related diseases are tumors that are considered benign and are noncancerous growths that occur in the connective tissue. While benign, these tumors are monitored and may at times require surgery if the patient is symptomatic as a result. Like sarcomas, imaging and biopsy are used to help in the diagnosis. Here are a few of the common non-sarcoma related diseases:
Desmoid
A desmoid is a rare soft tissue tumour that is benign and considered not cancerous. It can grow in size but doesn’t metastasize. One of the concerns around a desmoid is that it can grow and invade vital organs in the body. Usually, treatment involves surveillance, but in rare instances, surgery, radiation or chemotherapy. Certain desmoids can grow in association with a genetic condition called Familial Adenomatous Polyposis. Some can also occur during or after pregnancy as a response to hormones that occur naturally in the body.
Lipoma
A lipoma is a slow-growing, fatty lump that’s most often situated between your skin and the underlying muscle layer. A lipoma, which feels doughy and usually isn’t tender, moves readily with slight finger pressure. A lipoma isn’t cancerous and usually is harmless. Treatment generally isn’t necessary, but if the lipoma bothers you, is painful or is growing, you may require surgery.
Leiomyoma
Leiomyoma is a benign smooth muscle tumour. Leiomyomas are quite common in the uterus, where they are often called fibroids. Leiomyoma can also occur in other body sites, such as the retroperitoneum, abdomen, extremites, etc. Non-uterine leiomyoma is much less common.
Schwannoma
Schwannoma are benign, well-encapsulated, slow-growing nerve sheath tumors that are composed exclusively of Schwann cells. While 90% of schwannomas that occur are considered sporadic, for those that occur in specific syndromes (Example. neurofibromatosis type 2), there may be a genetic etiology.
