Ewing sarcoma, also known as an Ewing tumour, is a rare type of cancer that typically develops in the bones or the soft tissues surrounding the bones. It most commonly starts in the pelvis, chest wall, or the long bones of the legs, such as the thighbone (femur) or shinbone (tibia). In fewer instances, these tumours can grow in the skull or the flat bones of the trunk.
This cancer is considered rare, accounting for approximately 1% of all childhood cancers. While it primarily affects teenagers, it can also be found in younger children, young adults, and even older adults, with about 40% of cases diagnosed in the adult population.
Ewing sarcomas are caused by genetic changes that occur after birth; they are not hereditary and do not run in families.
Although they may look slightly different, both main types share the same underlying genetic changes and are treated using similar approaches:
The most common form, originating within the bones themselves.
A tumour that develops in the soft tissues adjacent to the bones.
The symptoms of Ewing sarcoma can vary greatly depending on the tumour's location and size. Often, the initial symptom is pain at the tumour site, which may become more severe at night or during physical activity. The pain may be a result of the tumour growth or a bone fracture due to the tumour weakening the bone.
Early signs can often be subtle and may be confused with minor sports injuries or common "growing pains." These can include:
As the tumour grows, symptoms tend to become more pronounced:
It is important to note that many of these symptoms overlap with other health conditions, such as infections or injuries. Therefore, seeing a doctor for a professional diagnosis is crucial. You should contact a healthcare professional promptly if you experience persistent bone or joint pain, a new lump that does not go away, or unexplained fever or weight loss.
A definitive diagnosis of Ewing sarcoma relies on a biopsy of the tumour. It is strongly advised that this initial biopsy be performed at the cancer centre where the patient intends to receive treatment. This ensures accurate sampling by an experienced specialist and helps minimise the risk of complications.
At SSCHRC, our specialised sarcoma teams—comprising surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and genetic counsellors—have extensive expertise in diagnosing this rare cancer. This coordinated, multidisciplinary approach ensures the most precise diagnosis and the development of the most effective treatment plan.
If symptoms suggest Ewing sarcoma, a doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination and review the patient's medical and family history. A combination of tests is used to confirm the diagnosis, determine the tumour's exact location and size, and check for cancer spread:
This is the only way to definitively diagnose Ewing sarcoma. A small sample of bone or soft tissue is removed and examined for cancer cells.
These scans help determine the tumour's exact location, size, and whether it has spread:
Testing is often performed on the biopsy tissue to confirm the diagnosis and differentiate Ewing sarcoma from other types of tumours.
Bloodwork is used to evaluate the patient's overall health, organ function, and readiness for treatment.
The experts at SSCHRC personalise treatment plans for every patient with Ewing sarcoma. A highly specialised team provides continuous care to maximise effectiveness while carefully considering the impact on growth and development, particularly for younger patients.
Treatment for Ewing sarcoma typically involves a combination of therapies: