About Urologic Sarcoma

Sarcomas represent a rare class of cancers of the soft tissue. These can occur anywhere in the body. Urologic sarcomas can arise from the bladder, prostate, kidneys or retroperitoneal tissue. The most common type is a leiomyosarcoma but others can occur including rhabdomyosarcomas, chondrosarcomas, osteosarcomas and fibrosarcomas. The corner stone of treatment for sarcomas includes a well planned out surgical removal. Surgery is often combined with chemotherapy or radiation in order to maximize the chance at cure.

The important components of a sarcoma that determine both the treatment and the prognosis include the size of the tumor, the pathological grade (level of aggressiveness), and the location. Often times, surrounding organs such as the bladder, prostate or kidney need to be removed in addition to the primary tumor.

If a patient's bladder needs to be removed, a new bladder can be constructed. In this way, not only can cure be achieved, but a normal quality of life can be maintained. Dr. Scherr has performed hundreds of bladder reconstructions with great success.

If you'd like additional information about urologic sarcoma, its diagnosis and care or any advice you may need concerning complementary treatment methods, please don't hesitate to contact Dr. Scherr.