Ewing's sarcomas, or Ewing's tumors, are a category of cancers that form in the bones or soft tissues. Ewing's sarcomas usually form in the pelvis, chest or legs, particularly the long bones. Rarely, tumors grow in the skull or flat bones of the trunk.
According to the American Cancer Society, about 225 children and teens are diagnosed annually with the disease in North America. They account for about 1 percent of pediatric cancers.
Researchers have found that Ewing's sarcomas are caused by genetic changes that happen after birth. However, it is not known why some people develop the disease. It is not passed down in families.
About two-thirds of Ewing's sarcoma patients become long-term survivors of the disease.
Ewing's sarcoma types
Ewing's sarcomas are categorized into three types. While each type is slightly different, they all are caused by the same gene abnormalities and are treated in the same way.
- Ewing's sarcoma of the bone: This is the most common type of Ewing's sarcoma.
- Extraosseous Ewing tumor (EOE): These tumors form in soft tissues around bones.
- Peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PPNET): An extremely rare type of cancer, these tumors share certain characteristics with Ewing's sarcoma of the bone and EOE.
If your child has been diagnosed with Ewing's sarcoma, we're here to help. Call 866-348-3095 to make an appointment or request an appointment online.
Ewing's sarcoma risk factors
Although the exact cause of Ewing's sarcoma is not known, certain things seem to put people at higher risk of developing the disease.
- Gender: More males that females develop Ewing's sarcoma.
- Race: Children who are white (non-Hispanic or Hispanic) are at higher risk. Ewing's sarcoma is very rare in other races.
- Age: Ewing's sarcoma usually develops in teenagers.
Learn more about Ewing's sarcoma:
In rare cases, Ewing's sarcoma can be passed down from one generation to the next. Genetic counseling may be right for you. Visit our genetic testing page to learn more.
Why choose MD Anderson for Ewing's sarcoma care?
At MD Anderson's Children's Cancer Hospital, each child with Ewing's sarcoma has a team of highly specialized experts who customize your child's treatment to ensure the most effective therapy with the least impact on the body – now and in the future.
Ewing's sarcoma is rare, and many doctors have little experience with treating it. Our physicians are among the world's most highly trained and experienced in treating Ewing's. This can translate into a better outcome in many cases.
Diagnosis and treatment
Accurate diagnosis of Ewing's sarcoma can be challenging, but it is essential to successful treatment. Our pathologists are dedicated to sarcoma, and they use the latest, most-sophisticated tests to pinpoint the type and extent of the cancer.
Ewing's sarcoma often requires a multi-therapy approach. Using the latest advances in complex limb-sparing surgeries, our surgeons are often able to avoid amputation if the cancer is in an arm or leg. If amputation is needed, we offer specialized rehabilitation.
Advancing research
Many children with Ewing's sarcoma are treated with clinical trials. We participate in trials of the Children's Oncology Group and offer other innovative therapies available at only a few hospitals in the nation. Our researchers have helped make many advances, including using drug combinations to treat Ewing's sarcoma.
Our Osteosarcoma and Ewing's Sarcoma Center coordinates care and streamlines and speeds access to clinical trials. In addition, sarcoma researchers work with physicians to translate laboratory research into new clinical trials, which are especially beneficial for patients with relapsed or refractorysarcoma.
Comprehensive care
Children's Cancer Hospital is designed just for children, with a full range of services and amenities that help make the child and family's experience as comfortable as possible. We go beyond medical care to deliver a comprehensive experience that treats the whole child. And at Children's Cancer Hospital, you're surrounded by the strength of one of the nation's top cancer centers.
If your child has been diagnosed with Ewing's sarcoma, we're here to help. Call 877-632-6789 to make an appointment or request an appointment online.
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MD Anderson's Children's Cancer Hospital
