Spindle cell carcinoma is an aggressive cancer that often originates in connective tissues and can spread rapidly. It is more common in areas exposed to the sun and can cause tumors that may be surgically removed. Treatment options include chemotherapy and radiation, but prevention through healthy habits is key. Symptoms include skin masses and fatigue, and any sores that don’t heal should be examined by a doctor.
Spindle cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that usually originates in the connective tissues of the body. When cells of this type of cancer are viewed under a microscope, they appear spindle-shaped. It is a very aggressive form of cancer and patients diagnosed with it usually do not live more than five years. It can spread rapidly from one tissue system to another, making treatment more difficult.
Typically, spindle cell carcinoma can occur in any connective tissue in the body, although it is more common in some areas than others. Some of the more common varieties occur in the skin on areas that have been overexposed to the sun. This type of cancer can cause a large mass, or tumor, that is usually surgically removed during the initial stages of treatment. Whether or not the entire mass can be removed will depend on where the tumor is. Those that are right next to a major artery or organ system may be inoperable.
After surgery, chemotherapy and radiation are the most common treatment methods for spindle cell carcinoma. Their effectiveness will depend on whether or not the disease has left the initial area. Once cancer has spread to surrounding organs or tissue, it is often much more difficult to treat. The exact treatment options used and in which order will depend on the type of tissue infected, as some respond better to radiation than chemotherapy.
Certain activities or behaviors can make you more prone to spindle cell carcinoma. Smoking or chewing tobacco, sun exposure, alcohol use, and exposure to certain chemicals can all increase your risk of developing this and other types of cancer. Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a proper weight and activity level can help reduce the risk of spindle cell carcinoma along with other diseases.
Spindle cell carcinoma is a relatively rare form of cancer. One of the main symptoms of the disease is a mass or tumor on the skin, sometimes resembling an ulcer or sore. It is more common in areas that have been exposed to the sun, although this is not always the case. The elderly are more at risk of developing this disease than those under the age of 40, but it has been known to affect younger patients as well. Once the cancer has spread to other areas, symptoms can include fatigue, nausea, pain and bruising. The exact symptoms will depend on where the cancer has spread.
Any sores that don’t heal with proper treatment within three to four weeks should be examined by a doctor. Sunscreen should be used whenever you are in the sun, not just during the summer months. Sun exposure should be limited during the brightest part of the day, which is generally between 11am and 3pm. Any large lumps, ulcers, tender or discolored areas of skin should be checked by a medical professional.
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