Synovial sarcoma – causes, side effects and treatments at NaturalPedia.com

Synovial sarcoma refers to a rare type of soft tissue sarcoma (cancerous tumor). The disease can develop anywhere in the body, like the head and the neck, but it often begins in the arms or legs. Synovial sarcoma involves the connective tissue, particularly the synovial cells and tendon sheath of the joints.

Synovium is the lubricating layer in the joints, such as the knees and elbows. It also creates synovial fluid.

The tumor has metastatic capabilities, as it can spread to other areas in the body like the bone marrow, the heart, kidney, lungs, and the lymph nodes.

While the exact cause of synovial sarcoma remains unknown, there is a genetic link. Over 90 percent of cases are associated with a particular genetic change wherein parts of chromosome 18 and chromosome X switch places. However, what causes this change is a mystery.

A synovial sarcoma is a somatic mutation, meaning it’s not hereditary. The disease is also called adult synovial sarcoma, biphasic synovial sarcoma, or malignant synovial sarcoma.

Known side effects of synovial sarcoma

Patients with synovial sarcoma don’t usually experience any side effects when the disease is in the early stages.

As the primary tumor grows, patients can suffer from side effects similar to those of arthritis or bursitis, like:

• Limited range of motion in the affected arm or leg
• Numbness
• Pain (due to a tumor pressing on a nerve)
• Shortness of breath (due to a mass in the lungs)
• Swelling
• A visible lump that you can feel

Risk factors for synovial sarcoma may include:

• Exposure to chemical carcinogens
• Exposure to radiation
• Having specific inherited conditions, like neurofibromatosis type 1
• Undergoing hip replacement/metal implants

Patients of any age can develop synovial sarcoma, but the condition is more common in teenagers and young adults.

Body systems harmed by synovial sarcoma

Synovial sarcoma may cause the following complications:

• Breathing or swallowing difficulties (if a mass blocks the food pipe or windpipe)
• Damage to the blood vessels and vital nerves (during surgery)
• Damage to the bone, intestine, or kidney
• Damage to the elbow, knee, or other organs
• Lung metastasis
• Restricted joint mobility (which can affect a patient’s quality of life)

In most cases, synovial sarcoma is detected too late. When the disease isn’t discovered immediately, a patient’s organs and tissues will be damaged beyond repair. Tumors often have a 50 percent recurrence rate following surgical excision and removal.

Food items or nutrients that may prevent synovial sarcoma

The following foods or nutrients can help prevent synovial sarcoma or address its side effects:

• Enzymes – The body has various enzymes that are needed for different physiological processes. Enzymes have anti-inflammatory properties, stimulate anti-cancer substances, and they help remove toxins from the body.
• Fermented foods – Fermented foods are rich in healthy bacteria. A healthy gut microbiota can regulate a person’s overall health. Individuals at increased risk for metabolic conditions and cancer usually have high concentrations of harmful bacteria in their gut microbiomes.
• Turmeric – Turmeric root contains curcumin, which can help treat cancer symptoms. Curcumin also has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Vitamin D – This vitamin is a crucial component of the central nervous system. It’s also necessary for the overall health of the body. Additionally, vitamin D has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Treatments, management plans for synovial sarcoma

Treatment for synovial sarcoma may include a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and invasive procedures.

Treatment options for the condition include:

• Embolization – This offers temporary relief from the side effects of synovial sarcoma. It can also minimize blood loss during a surgical procedure.
• Non-invasive procedures – These kinds of procedures are recommended if a patient has a tumor that is inaccessible or if surgical intervention is unsafe.
• Wide surgical excision – This removes the tumor, and it is the standard treatment for the condition. If the tumor is not fully removed, it might recur.

Where to learn more

• Kids, Cancer and Gluten Free… Ethan’s Story Part 1
• Kids, Cancer and Gluten Free: Ethan’s Story Part 2 “Hello! this is your body talking!”
• Let Food be your medicine? The Hippocratic Theory Part 1
• Marijuana laws in New Jersey are loosening restrictions in the wake of a young boy’s tragic death to rare cancer
• Top Ways Mistletoe Extract Helps Fight Cancer

Summary

Synovial sarcoma refers to a rare type of soft tissue sarcoma (cancerous tumor). The disease can develop anywhere in the body, like the head and the neck, but it often begins in the arms or legs.

The side effects of synovial sarcoma may include pain, shortness of breath, swelling, and a visible lump.

Synovial sarcoma may cause complications like damage to the blood vessels and vital nerves (during surgery), lung metastasis, and restricted joint mobility.

Enzymes, fermented foods, turmeric, and vitamin D can help prevent synovial sarcoma or address its side effects.

Treatment for synovial sarcoma may include a combination of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and invasive procedures. Treatment options for the condition include embolization, non-invasive procedures, and wide surgical excision.

Sources include:

Healthline.com

DoveMed.com

TheTruthAboutCancer.com