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Cancerous tumor growth in bone tissue

Aggressive bone tumor characterized by abnormal growth of histiocytes.

Aggressive bone growth tumor known as malignant fibrous histiocytoma
Aggressive bone growth tumor known as malignant fibrous histiocytoma

Cancerous tumor growth in bone tissue

Undifferentiated Pleomorphic Sarcoma (UPS) is a rare and aggressive type of soft tissue cancer that can occur in the bone. This cancer is more common in older and middle-aged adults, rarely appearing in children.

Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy are treatment options for UPS. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous cells. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy aim to slow or stop the growth of tumors, and kill cancer cells, respectively. Targeted therapy involves drugs that target specific tumor genes and proteins.

The exact causes and risk factors of UPS are not fully understood, but research suggests that people over the age of 50 and those who have had radiation therapy in the affected area in the past may be at a higher risk of developing UPS. The location, size, appearance under a microscope, a person's age, sex, weight, previous cancer treatments, and genetic diseases also affect a person's response to UPS treatment.

In the early stages of suspected UPS, a doctor will typically ask the person a few questions about their medical history, complete a physical exam, and request imaging to analyze suspicious lumps or masses. A biopsy may be requested if a doctor suspects a lump is a tumor. The type of biopsy depends on the size of the lump on the bone, with a core biopsy or incisional biopsy being the options. During a biopsy, a medical professional collects a sample of cells and tissue.

UPS symptoms include bone pain, noticeable swelling or a lump, pain in the joints, weakness of the bone, increasing the risk of a break or fracture, a lump that feels soft or warm to the touch, and an unexplained fever.

The sooner a person receives treatment, the more likely they are to respond to it. While UPS can spread to other parts of the body, the recurrence rate is around 30%. When people first receive treatment, data suggests that 50-60% live up to 10 years. However, it's important to note that individual outcomes can vary greatly.

It's crucial for anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve the chances of a positive outcome.

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