Collaborating for Sarcoma Awareness: A Call to Action for Early Detection and Expert Care
Sarcoma Awareness Month serves as a reminder to physicians and referring providers that this rare and heterogeneous cancer demands a nuanced, collaborative approach to care. Although sarcomas represent less than 1% of all new cancer diagnoses in the U.S., they encompass nearly 100 subtypes, each with distinct clinical and pathological features.
In 2024 alone, an estimated 4,000 bone sarcomas and 15,000 soft tissue sarcomas were diagnosed nationwide. At Baptist Health Cancer Care, close to 100 sarcoma patients were treated this past year—primarily for liposarcoma and undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, among other subtypes.
Precision Requires a Multidisciplinary Approach
“Sarcomas are best managed at centers of excellence, where patients benefit from integrated expertise across surgical oncology, orthopedic oncology, medical oncology, radiation oncology, radiology, and pathology,” says Harold Huss, M.D., surgical oncologist at the Eugene M. & Christine E. Lynn Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health, at Boca Raton Regional Hospital.
At both Miami Cancer Institute and Lynn Cancer Institute, patients are cared for through a multidisciplinary framework that includes collaborative case reviews and individualized treatment planning. Depending on the subtype and staging, therapeutic strategies may include:
- Surgical resection
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapies
Notably, pediatric and adult sarcoma patients often require distinct treatment protocols, further reinforcing the need for subspecialized coordination.
Early Signs Are Subtle — Referral Matters
Because sarcomas may present with nonspecific or silent symptoms, early recognition from front-line clinicians is essential. The most common early sign is a painless, enlarging mass. Other red flags include:
- New or growing soft tissue lumps
- Persistent asymmetry or swelling
- Bone pain
- Weakness or functional loss in a limb
“Outcomes are significantly improved when sarcomas are detected early—especially before they have grown or spread,” says Dr. Huss. “We encourage primary care physicians, dermatologists, and orthopedists to refer any suspicious cases for further evaluation.”
Case in Focus: MMNST and Genetic Implications
Among the rarest and most aggressive sarcoma subtypes is malignant melanotic nerve sheath tumor (MMNST)—a tumor that exhibits melanocytic differentiation and can arise in peripheral or cranial nerves. Typically diagnosed in young adults, MMNST carries a high risk of recurrence and metastasis.
These tumors are often associated with PRKAR1A mutations and Carney Complex, an inherited condition that increases the risk of myxomas and endocrine tumors. Standard care includes surgical excision, with postoperative radiation and chemotherapy in metastatic cases.
Addressing Misinformation and Alternative Treatment Delays
Increased online interest in alternative therapies—such as juicing, herbal supplements, or ivermectin—has led some patients to delay or reject evidence-based care.
“While the desire for holistic options is understandable, delaying standard therapy puts patients at significant risk for tumor progression or metastasis,” says Dr. Huss. “Our teams work closely with patients to explain treatment rationale and guide them through decision-making.”
Refer With Confidence
Baptist Health Cancer Care offers dedicated sarcoma programs at both Miami Cancer Institute and Lynn Cancer Institute, ensuring patients receive timely access to advanced diagnostics, coordinated care, and the latest clinical trials.
Referring providers can feel confident that their patients will be seen by a team that understands the nuances of rare cancers and leverages the full power of collaborative care.