Ewing’s sarcoma occurs in the bone or close to the bone, most often in adolescents between the age of 10 and 20. It occurs in about one teenager in 50,000 and accounts for about 30 percent of bone cancers in children. This cancer most often is found in the arms and legs, particularly the thigh bone. It also may involve muscle and soft tissues surrounding the tumor. Ewing’s sarcoma cells can spread or metastasize to other areas of the body, including bone marrow and the lungs.
Prior to adolescence, the number of boys and girls affected by Ewing’s sarcoma is equal. After adolescence, however, the number of men with the disease is slightly higher than women. This may be due to the increased rate of growth among males during adolescence.
The following are the most common symptoms of Ewing’s sarcoma. Each child, however, may experience symptoms differently.
* Persistent or intermittent pain around the site of the tumour
* Swelling and redness around the site of the tumour
* Fever
* Weight loss and decreased appetite
* Fatigue
* Paralysis and incontinence if the tumour is in the spinal region
* Symptoms related to nerve compression from a tumour such as numbness, tingling and paralysis
For more information about Ewings Sarcoma, please visit Macmillan Cancer Support.