What are the symptoms of soft tissue sarcoma?

Soft tissue sarcoma often doesn’t cause symptoms in its early stages. In fact, symptoms of soft tissue sarcoma may not show up until the cancer has grown for some time. There are many types of soft tissue sarcoma and many locations where the cancer can start. Symptoms depend on the location, size, and if the cancer is pushing on other tissues or organs. The most common locations are the legs, arms, and belly (abdomen), but they can be located anywhere there is soft tissue. The following are some of the more common symptoms of this cancer:

• A new or growing lump or swelling on the body, which is usually painless

• Belly pain

• Vomiting (may be bloody)

• Loss of appetite or feeling full after not eating very much

• Red or tar-like black stool. This could mean there’s blood in your stool.

• Tingling or numb sensation (paresthesia) or swelling (edema) in an arm or leg. This is because of compression by the cancer on tissues and organs.

When to see your healthcare provider

Many of these symptoms can be caused by other health problems. Still, it’s important to see your healthcare provider if you have these symptoms. Only a healthcare provider can tell if you have a soft tissue sarcoma.