Having tests for sarcomas

Visiting your GP

If you think you might have some of the symptoms of a soft tissue sarcoma, you should go to your GP. They'll be able to talk to you about your symptoms, and they can do tests to find out more.

They’ll examine you and usually arrange for some tests to be done, such as x-rays. There may be a number of reasons why you're feeling unwell, so it can be difficult to diagnose the problem straightaway. If your GP can't find the cause, you'll be referred to a specialist at the hospital.

At the hospital

To begin with you may be seen by a specialist at a  general hospital for more tests. If your GP suspects you have a  soft tissue sarcoma you may be referred directly to a sarcoma specialist.

If you're diagnosed with a sarcoma and not already seeing a specialist, you will be referred to one. You'll probably see a lot of doctors, nurses and other staff.

Your hospital doctor will examine you and arrange for some of the following tests:

• x-rays
• bone scans
• ultrasound scans
• MRI, CT or PET scans 
• biopsies. 

You won't necessarily need all of these tests.

Further tests

If the tests show that you have a sarcoma, you might need a few more tests to check how your body is working in general:

• Blood tests
• Tests to check your heart is healthy, including an echo-cardiogram or electrocardiogram (ECG), or a nuclear medicine scan (MUGA scan).
• Tests to check your kidneys are healthy, which can involve blood tests or having your wee (urine) collected for a period of time.

This may seem like a lot of tests, but they’ll help the doctors plan the best treatment for you.

Having tests and waiting for the results can be a scary time. Talking about how you feel and getting support from family, friends, your specialist nurse and doctor can make it a bit easier.