Best-in-Class Cancer Care for All Types of Sarcomas
Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that begins in your bones or your body’s connective tissues, fat, muscle, blood vessels and nerves. Retroperitoneal sarcomas are a type of sarcoma that develop near your kidneys in the retroperitoneum (back of the abdomen). These tumors can develop over long periods and grow to massive sizes, up to 20-30 pounds.
There are several subtypes of retroperitoneal sarcomas. The most common types are:
- Ewing sarcoma – originates in bones and surrounding tissue
- Leiomyosarcoma – originates in smooth (involuntary) muscle
- Liposarcoma – originates in fat
Our retroperitoneal sarcoma specialists at the USC Sarcoma Program, part of Keck Medicine of USC, have a deep understanding of these different tumor types. We work together to give you the best possible outcome. Our team of specialists is pioneering new treatments and surgery techniques to remove tumors and protect your limbs.
Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Symptoms We Treat
Retroperitoneal sarcoma symptoms are often vague and nonspecific. Your tumor can cause pain if it presses against a nerve. You may also experience:
- A sense of fullness or heaviness in your abdomen
- Acid reflux (GERD)
- Constipation
- Leg swelling
- Shortness of breath
If you experience symptoms or pain, call your doctor. An early diagnosis helps you get treatment before the tumor spreads.
Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Treatments We Offer
Treatment for retroperitoneal sarcoma usually involves surgery to remove the sarcoma. Your care team may also recommend chemotherapy or radiation therapy to kill cancer cells. Our retroperitoneal sarcoma specialists personalize your treatment plan, so you get the care you need. We offer the latest surgical approaches to help you feel better and heal faster.
Why Choose Us for Retroperitoneal Sarcoma Care
Our team offers access to a combination of effective treatment options, including surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies and clinical trials evaluating novel therapeutics.
We have the most experienced multidisciplinary sarcoma team in Southern California.
Our doctors have decades of experience in sarcoma treatment.
We offer a wide range of advanced treatment therapies for sarcoma, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), cryoablation and bloodless surgical options.
U.S. News & World Report consistently ranks USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center among the nation’s top programs for exceptional cancer care.