What is Ewing’s Sarcoma?
Ewing’s sarcoma is a primary bone cancer that affects mainly children and adolescents. It’s one of a group of cancers known collectively as the Ewing’s sarcoma family of tumors ESFT or sometimes just EFT. It’s the second most common bone cancer in children, but it’s also relatively uncommon. It accounts for only 1% of all childhood cancers. Although it can occur at any age, it very rarely occurs in adults over the age of 30.
Because many illnesses can cause the same symptoms as Ewing’s sarcoma, it’s sometimes missed in its early stages. But early diagnosis and treatment is important. If found early enough, before it spreads to multiple organs, Ewing’s sarcoma can be treated successfully in 50% to 75% of cases.
Ewing’s Sarcoma Key Points
- Ewing’s sarcoma is a type of tumor that forms in bone or soft tissue.
- Signs and symptoms of Ewing’s sarcoma include swelling and pain near the tumor.
- Tests that examine the bone and soft tissue are used to diagnose and stage Ewing’s sarcoma.
- A biopsy is done to diagnose Ewing’s sarcoma.
- Certain factors affect prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.
Causes of Ewing’s Sarcoma
Ewing’s sarcoma can occur anytime during childhood and young adulthood. But it usually develops during puberty, when bones are growing rapidly. It is 10 times as common in Caucasian children as in African American, African, and Asian children.
The tumor may start anywhere in the body. Most often, it starts in the long bones of the arms and legs, the pelvis, or the chest. It can also develop in the skull or the flat bones of the trunk.
The tumor often spreads (metastasizes) to the lungs and other bones. At the time of diagnosis, spread is seen in about one-third of children with Ewing’s sarcoma.
In rare cases, Ewing’s sarcoma occurs in adults.
