Sarcomas are a very rare form of cancer which begin in the soft tissues or bones in the body. Also, the term sarcoma can be used to refer to bone cancer and other cancers that develop in connective tissues. It’s responsible for anywhere from 1 to 2percent in all types of cancer, which affect adolescents, children as well as adults. Although bone cancer can manifest everywhere in the body, it’s most common to develop in the legs and arms.
As it grows deep into the body and then becomes apparent when there is an abnormal lump, the patient may not notice any signs or symptoms that are significant. The early diagnosis of sarcoma is vital.
How can bone sarcoma be diagnosed?
Sarcoma of bone is a type of cancer that requires various tests for accurate diagnosis, although not all tests are necessary for every individual. When selecting diagnostic tests, doctors take into account several factors such as the suspected type of cancer, the patient’s signs and symptoms, age, general health, and the results of previous medical tests.
Here are the tests commonly used to diagnose and determine the stage of bone sarcoma:
Bone scan
Dr. Aakaar Kapoor, medical advisor and chief radiologist at City X Ray & Scan Clinic says, “A bone scan aids in determining the stage of a bone sarcoma. A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into a patient’s vein, which collects in areas of the bone. A special camera detects the radiation emitted by the tracer, creating images. Healthy bone appears lighter, while areas affected by cancer cells or fractures stand out.”
Blood tests
Laboratory blood tests alone cannot diagnose sarcomas. However, in some cases of osteosarcoma or Ewing sarcoma, elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase may be present. It’s important to note that these substances can also be elevated due to non-cancerous causes, such as normal growth in children or healing broken bones.
Presently, we are fighting against the extremely contagious Nipah virus, which was the first case of which was reported in the state of Texas in 2018. Up to now, two death reports have emerged in the state. Earlier, it was deemed to be unnatural’. One of the first times India was witness to the Nipah outbreak was in the year 2018. On May 19, 2018 an Nipah virus (NiV) epidemic was announced in the Kozhikode district in Kerala, India, and within a month, there were the death of 17 people and confirmed 18 cases were reported from the state.