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Sarcoma Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sarcoma

[sɑːrˈkoʊ.mə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical terminology

Sarcoma is a type of cancer that originates in connective tissues such as bones, cartilage, fat, muscle, and blood vessels. Unlike carcinomas, which develop from epithelial cells, sarcomas arise from mesenchymal cells. They are relatively rare but can occur in various parts of the body and may spread to other tissues and organs.

Synonyms

malignancy, neoplasm, tumor.

Examples of usage

  • He was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a common type of bone sarcoma.
  • The veterinarian explained that the dog had a soft tissue sarcoma.
  • Early detection of sarcoma is crucial for effective treatment.
  • Sarcomas can be challenging to treat due to their diverse nature.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Overview

  • Sarcomas are rare compared to other cancers, accounting for about 1% of all adult cancers.
  • There are over 50 different kinds of sarcomas, which can affect different types of tissues in the body.
  • Some sarcomas grow quickly, while others can take years to develop.

Historical Origins

  • The term 'sarcoma' comes from the Greek word 'sarkoma,' meaning 'fleshy growth.'
  • The first known description of sarcoma dates back to the early 19th century by surgeons who operated on tumors.
  • Historically, sarcomas were often confused with other types of tumors until advances in medical imaging and pathology helped differentiate them.

Types of Sarcoma

  • Osteosarcoma is a common type found in the bones, frequently seen in teenagers and young adults.
  • Liposarcoma originates in fatty tissues and can be aggressive, typically found in older adults.
  • Leiomyosarcoma arises from smooth muscle tissue, affecting organs such as the uterus or stomach.

Pop Culture

  • Sarcoma is often mentioned in medical dramas, highlighting the challenges of diagnosing and treating rare cancers.
  • In literature, characters with sarcoma or stories about cancer sometimes portray themes of struggle and resilience.
  • Influential figures, like the artist Andy Warhol, have been open about their battles with sarcomas, raising awareness.

Statistics

  • The overall 5-year survival rate for sarcoma varies widely depending on the type and stage, roughly ranging from 15% to 85%.
  • Childhood sarcomas, like Ewing's sarcoma, represent a significant portion of cancers found in children, leading to targeted pediatric treatment strategies.
  • Women are generally more often diagnosed with certain types of sarcoma as compared to men, with uterine sarcomas being a notable example.

Origin of 'sarcoma'

The term 'sarcoma' originates from the Greek word 'sarkoma', which means 'fleshy growth'. It was used in medical literature in the 19th century to describe tumors that arise from connective tissue. The understanding of sarcoma has evolved over time, with advancements in pathology and oncology leading to the identification of various subtypes, including osteosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, and liposarcoma. As medical research continues to progress, the classification and treatment of sarcomas become more refined, helping to improve patient outcomes and survival rates. Sarcomas represent a complex group of diseases, and ongoing studies aim to uncover the genetic and environmental factors contributing to their development.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,331, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.