Mark Herzlich Beats Ewing's Sarcoma

Boston, MA --- Mark Herzlich, star linebacker for Boston College, announced today that he has won his battle against Ewing's sarcoma. In a Boston College statement, it is reported that Herzlich, 22, was diagnosed in May 2009 after suffering from pain in one of his legs. He had been undergoing chemotherapy and radiation to treat the rare form of cancer which forms in the soft tissue and bone. Herzlich, who was declared 2008 ACC Defensive Player of the Year, returned in September to classes and workouts, but still has three treatments for Ewing's sarcoma remaining, according to ESPN.

About Ewing's Sarcoma

The National Institute of Health describes Ewing's sarcoma as a cancer usually found among children - often in teenagers; however, Ewing's sarcoma can sometimes develop in adults. Ewing's sarcoma is common among those entering puberty, which is a period of quick bone growth. The legs, arms, pelvic area, and chest are common locations for Ewing's sarcoma tumors. The skull and flat bones in the trunk are other sites where Ewing's sarcoma can form.

What Are the Symptoms of Ewing's Sarcoma?

Unlike some other cancers, where many symptoms may be present, Ewing's sarcoma produces relatively few symptoms. The most common is pain at the site of the tumor, which is what helped lead to Herzlich's diagnosis. Swelling may be present in the area of an Ewing's sarcoma tumor. People with Ewing's sarcoma sometimes also come down with a fever.

CT scans, x-rays, and biopsy are commonly used to diagnose Ewing's sarcoma.

Treatment can include one (or a combination) of several chemotherapy drugs, radiation, and surgery.

The prognosis for someone with Ewing's sarcoma largely is based on what stage the disease the cancer is in when first detected. As Herzlich's case shows, people with Ewing's sarcoma can survive the disease. However, it is important that the disease is detected early. When Ewing's sarcoma becomes metastatic, it is much more difficult to treat the disease. In fact, about one-third of patients with Ewing's sarcoma are not even diagnosed until the disease has already spread beyond the site of the original (primary) tumor.

Resources:

Boston College Eagles. "Herzlich Discloses He is Battling Cancer." May 14, 2009. October 3, 2009. http://bceagles.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/051409aaa.html

ESPN. "Herzlich Says Prognosis is Positive." October 3, 2009. http://sports.espn.go.com/boston/ncf/news/story?id=4526574

Medline Plus. "Ewing's Sarcoma." September 21, 2009. October 3, 2009. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001302.htm