Soft tissue sarcomas are cancers that develop in the connective and supporting tissues of the body. These include tissues such as the muscle, nerves, fat, fibrous tissue and blood vessels.

There are many different types of soft tissue sarcoma. Depending on the type, they have different behaviours and outcomes. The type depends on what cell the cancer started in.

What are soft tissue sarcomas?

Soft tissue sarcomas are cancers that develop in the supporting tissues of the body. These include tissues such as the muscle, nerves, fat and blood vessels.

Survival for soft tissue sarcomas

Survival depends on many factors including the stage and type of your cancer. Find our the survival information for soft tissue sarcoma.

Symptoms of soft tissue sarcomas

The symptoms of soft tissue sarcoma will vary, depending on the size of the cancer and where it is in the body.

Risks and causes of soft tissue sarcomas

We don't know what causes most soft tissue sarcomas. But some factors may increase your risk of developing it. Having any of these risk factors does not mean that you will develop cancer.

Types of soft tissue sarcomas

The type of soft tissue sarcoma you have tells you the type of cell that the cancer started in. Knowing this helps your doctor decide which treatment you need.

Getting diagnosed with soft tissue sarcomas

You usually start by seeing your GP. They will examine you and might refer you for tests or to a specialist.

Stages and grades of soft tissue sarcoma

Staging means how big the cancer is and whether it has spread. Grading means how abnormal the cancer cells look under a microscope.

Treatment for soft tissue sarcoma

The main treatment for soft tissue sarcoma is surgery. You may also have radiotherapy treatment to reduce the symptoms and help you feel better. A team of doctors and other professionals discuss the best treatment and care for you.

Living with soft tissue sarcoma

Lots of advice and support are available to help you cope with soft tissue sarcoma and its treatment.

Research and clinical trials for soft tissue sarcoma

All treatments must be fully researched before they can be adopted as standard treatment for everyone. Discover the latest clinical trials that are underway for soft tissue sarcomas.

Last reviewed: 
15 Aug 2024
Next review due: 
15 Aug 2027