Clear Cell Sarcoma

Also known as: CCS, soft tissue sarcoma

What is clear cell sarcoma?

Clear cell sarcoma is a form of cancer that develops in the soft tissues of the body. The most common areas are in the legs, feet, arms or hands, though it can also be found in the stomach, intestines and elsewhere in the body. It gets its name due to the fact that the tumor cells appear clear when they are examined under a microscope

What causes clear cell sarcoma?

Like most cancers, the root cause of clear cell sarcoma appears to be a genetic mutation that occurs in the chromosomes. There aren’t any specific risk factors for clear cell sarcoma.

What are the symptoms of clear cell sarcoma?

The first symptom a person may experience with clear cell sarcoma is a noticeable lump that gets larger in the impacted area. Over time, symptoms such as fatigue, night sweats and unexplained weight loss can occur.

How can clear cell sarcoma affect children?

Clear cell sarcoma can occur in children. When all types of sarcoma are accounted for, they make up about 15% of childhood cancer cases. Clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK) is a rare form of clear cell sarcoma that can occur in children.

What are clear cell sarcoma treatments?

When clear cell sarcoma requires treatment, the most common process is to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue with surgery and then use radiation therapy to kill any surrounding cancer cells. Other treatments, such as immunotherapy and other medications, are being evaluated for their effectiveness at treating clear cell sarcoma.

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Reviewed by: Maggie Fader, MD

This page was last updated on: July 29, 2025 04:10 PM