Childhood Soft Tissue Sarcoma Symptoms

The signs of soft tissue sarcoma vary from child to child, and symptoms often depend on the tumor location and size.

Early symptoms

• A painless lump or mass, often in an arm, leg, or trunk
• Slight swelling or firmness in the area of the tumor
• Minor discomfort or mild tenderness near the tumor can be present
• Occasional fatigue

Late symptoms (as the tumor grows or presses on surrounding tissues)

• Pain that may worsen at night or with activity
• Muscle weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving a limb
• Swelling that spreads to nearby areas
• Visible deformity or noticeable change in size of the affected limb or body area
• Unexplained fever or weight loss
• Shortness of breath if the tumor spreads to the lungs

What soft tissue sarcoma feels like

Soft tissue sarcomas often begin as small, firm lumps under the skin or within deeper tissues. What your child feels can vary depending on the tumor’s location and size:

• Painless or slightly tender mass: Many soft tissue sarcomas initially do not hurt. Some children may only notice a small lump that feels firmer than the surrounding tissue.
• Deep pressure or discomfort: Tumors that grow within muscles, nerves or joints may cause a feeling of pressure, tightness or mild aching.
• Movement changes: If the sarcoma presses on a joint, muscle or tendon, your child may notice stiffness, weakness or difficulty performing normal movements.
• Progressive changes: Over time, the lump may feel larger, harder or more irregular, and the surrounding area may swell.

It is important to note that not every lump or firm area is cancer, but any persistent or growing mass should be evaluated by a pediatrician, orthopaedic surgeon or orthopaedic oncologist. Getting checked early can provide reassurance or help detect sarcoma sooner if it is present.

Other conditions with similar symptoms

Many of the early signs of soft tissue sarcoma can be caused by less serious conditions, including:

• Benign cysts or lipomas (non-cancerous lumps)
• Muscle strains or injuries
• Infections or inflammatory conditions
• Bone growths or other non-cancerous tumors
• Foreign objects under the skin, such as splinters

When to see a doctor

It is important to contact your child’s doctor if you notice:

• A lump that grows quickly or does not go away
• Persistent pain, swelling or tenderness in an arm, leg or other area
• Difficulty moving a limb or weakness in muscles
• Onset of a new limp
• Unexplained fever, fatigue or weight loss

Early evaluation by a pediatrician, pediatric oncologist, pediatric orthopedic surgeon or orthopedic oncologist is important. While soft tissue sarcomas are rare, timely assessment can rule out serious conditions and ensure prompt treatment if needed.