My sister has finished treatment for a type of bone cancer called sarcoma. Now we just wait and see. Is there any way to know sooner than later if the cancer has come back? Is there some kind of screening test like they have for colon or breast cancer?
Sarcoma is a type of cancer that affects the connective or supportive tissue. Sarcomas occur in bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or soft tissues. There isn't a simple screening test for this type of cancer.
Sarcoma is referred to as a nonscreenable cancer. Metastases or spread can occur long before the person has any noticeable symptoms of cancer recurrence.
This is one reason why patients should keep their regularly scheduled appointments with the oncologist. Blood tests and imaging studies can help detect cancer recurrence sooner than later. Any change in health status or new symptoms should be reported right away. Any suspicious mass, swelling, or pain must be evaluated by the doctor.
At the same time, encourage your sister to participate in cancer tests for those cancers that are screenable. You should do so, also. Some cancers may not be life-threatening, but they can result in serious complications.
In the case of bone cancer, surgery to remove the tumor can be very disfiguring. Early detection and treatment is still the best way to prevent such problems.
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