Definition of a Spindle Cell Tumor
Spindle cell tumors are cancerous masses. They are made up of cells which, when viewed under a microscope have a spindle shape. These cells occur in sarcoma and carcinoma masses.
Other People Are Reading
-
Definition
-
Spindle cell tumors are a rare form of malignant tumor that typically begin on the skin or in the soft tissue surrounding organs, though they can also be found in the bone.
At-Risk
-
Spindle cell tumors are typically diagnosed in patients over the age of 40. Exposure to certain chemicals or radiation, or the presence of certain lymphatic or genetic conditions may also put one more at risk for developing a spindle cell mass.
-
Carcinomas
-
Spindle cell carcinomas are usually squamous cell carcinomas (SCC), and
tend to be highly malignant. Known for their rapid cell growth, they frequently metastasize into surrounding tissues.
Sarcomas
-
The most common types of spindle cell sarcoma are malignant fibrous histiocytoma, liposarcoma and leiomyosarcoma. The American Cancer Society claims that, based on 2009’s statistics, 10,660 new soft tissue sarcomas will be diagnosed in 2010.
False Alarms
-
Benign tumors and severe bruises can look like a spindle cell tumor on first inspection. Diagnostic testing should be done to confirm that a mass is malignant before a treatment program is designed.
-
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Creatas/Getty Images
