Alveolar sarcoma (pronounced /ælˈviːələr sɑːrˈkoʊmə/) is a rare type of cancer that affects soft tissues. The word "alveolar" comes from the Latin word "alveolus," which means small cavity or hollow. In IPA phonetic transcription, the stress falls on the second syllable of "alveolar" and on the first syllable of "sarcoma." The use of IPA helps to accurately spell and pronounce medical terms, which can be complex and difficult to remember. It is important to use correct spelling to avoid confusion and ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Alveolar sarcoma, also known as alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS), is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that arises from the soft tissues in the body, particularly in the muscles. It is characterized by the formation of tumor cells that closely resemble the alveolar structures found in the lungs, hence being termed as "alveolar" sarcoma.
ASPS typically affects adolescents and young adults, often occurring in the limbs, particularly in the thigh or buttock region. However, it can also develop in other areas of the body, such as the head and neck, including the tongue. This type of cancer is frequently slow-growing, but can eventually spread to distant organs and tissues.
Clinically, alveolar sarcoma is characterized by the presence of numerous small blood vessels within the tumor tissue. These vessels are often prominent, contributing to the rich vascularity of the tumor. The most common symptoms include the development of a painless mass or swelling at the affected site, which may gradually increase in size over time.
Diagnosis of alveolar sarcoma involves a combination of techniques, such as radiographic imaging, biopsy, and pathological examination of the tumor tissue. Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the tumor, which may be followed by radiation therapy to target any remaining cancer cells. However, the overall prognosis for alveolar sarcoma is generally poor, as it tends to recur and metastasize to other sites, including the lungs and brain.
Further research is needed to better understand the underlying causes, genetic mutations, and potential targeted therapies for alveolar sarcoma to improve patient outcomes and survival rates.
A tumor formed of a reticular stroma of connective tissue enclosing numerous round cells.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "alveolar sarcoma" is derived from Latin and Greek roots.
The term "alveolar" comes from the Latin word "alveolus", meaning "small cavity" or "small hollow". In the context of biology, "alveolar" refers to structures resembling small honeycomb-like cavities or sacs.
The term "sarcoma" originates from the Greek word "sarkoma", formed by combining "sarx" (flesh) and "-oma" (a suffix indicating a tumor or abnormal growth). Sarcomas are a broad category of cancerous tumors that develop in connective tissues, such as muscles, bones, or soft tissues.
Therefore, "alveolar sarcoma" refers to a specific type of sarcoma that displays a histological growth pattern with small cavities resembling alveoli.