We normally think that cancer only affects our lungs, colon, or brain. But have you ever thought about a cancer that starts in muscle tissue? Muscle tissue cancers are usually rare. But sometimes, they can develop in both skeletal and smooth muscles. Because muscle cancers are uncommon, it’s easy for us to ignore them as muscle pain in the early stages.
What are muscle tissue cancers?
Muscle tissue cancers are very rare, and they originate from cells that form our muscles. These cancers originate directly from our muscles and can also spread to our organs. Such cancers mainly develop into skeletal muscles that control our movements, or smooth muscles that are found in our stomach or blood vessels.
Types of muscle tissue cancer
Doctors classify muscle cancers based on the type of muscle they start in. Rhabdomyosarcoma develops in our skeletal muscle cells that help our body move and function properly, like arms and legs. Leiomyosarcoma is the other cancer that originates from our smooth muscles, which are found in our stomach, intestine, and blood vessels.
Who is more affected by the cancer?
Cancer of muscle tissue can happen to us at any stage. However, certain cancers are particularly seen in a specific age bracket, like the following:
Rhabdomyosarcoma is seen mostly in children and adolescents, which makes it a more pediatric case.
Leiomyosarcoma is particularly seen in middle-aged people or older individuals, and it arises in internal organs.
Common symptoms you should look for
Muscle tissue cancers appear very subtle and are easy for us to ignore in the beginning. But if these changes tend to continue over time, then you need to get yourself checked on time.
A lump or swelling that becomes visible without any clear injury.
A feeling of pain in the surrounding area if the swelling presses against nerves.
Not every swelling or pain in our muscles links to cancer, but paying attention to these symptoms can help you detect any suspicion early.
Treatment options you should look for
Treating muscle tissue cancers completely depends on your cancer stage, type, and the location and size of your tumor. Doctors keep these terms as their primary consideration to ensure your overall safety. Surgery is still the preliminary step to remove the cancer and tissues that are affected in the surrounding area. But sometimes, chemotherapy and radiation are also considered to destroy the remaining cancer cells before and after your surgery. These mesurres helps improves your chances of recovery by reducing the risk of recurrence.
Protecting your muscle health
Detecting muscle cancer is confusing when symptoms look so common. But staying aware and getting checked when you feel something is odd can help you receive the timely care you deserve.