Sarcoma Program

(415) 502-1622

The UCSF Sarcoma Program offers state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment services for sarcomas, rare cancers that begin in a bone or soft tissue in various regions of the body. Soft tissue sarcomas may develop in fat, muscle, blood vessels, tendons or nerves. Researchers have identified many different sarcomas, which require specialized treatment depending on the type, location and other factors.

In addition to radiologists and pathologists, our dedicated team includes subspecialists from thoracic oncology, orthopedic surgical oncology, gastrointestinal surgical oncology, head and neck surgical oncology and pediatric oncology. Our experts are skilled at using the most accurate diagnostic tools; cutting-edge surgical techniques, including surgical reconstruction; and promising new medical therapies. Precise, customized treatments are facilitated by genomic sequencing, advanced forms of chemotherapy, and biological and molecular targeting.

Our deep expertise covers the wide range of sarcomas, the most common of which are listed below (see "conditions we treat"). Use our find a doctor tool to search for a provider experienced in treating the type of sarcoma you have.

As part of our commitment to outstanding medical care, our research laboratory is working to develop innovative treatments for sarcoma. Patients may have an opportunity to join one of UCSF's ongoing clinical trials.

Our locations (1)

Key treatments

Adjuvant and neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Biological targeted therapy
Bone resection and reconstruction
Brachytherapy (HDR & LDR)
Cancer chemotherapy
Cancer immunotherapy
Genomic sequencing for sarcoma
Isolated limb infusion
Limb-sparing surgery
Palliative bone tumor ablation
Personalized sarcoma treatment
Radical resection for soft tissue sarcoma
Targeted molecular therapy
Vascular resection and reconstruction

Our team

Awards & recognition

Among the top hospitals in the nation
Best in Northern California and No. 7 in the nation for cancer care

Accreditations & memberships

National Cancer Institute

The National Cancer Institute has designated UCSF a comprehensive cancer center, its highest ranking. This designation is awarded to centers that demonstrate scientific excellence and the ability to conduct cancer research across many disciplines.

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Commission on Cancer

UCSF's cancer programs have been accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) since 1933. The CoC is a consortium of groups dedicated to improving cancer patients' survival and quality of life via research, education and better medical care.

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National Comprehensive Cancer Network

UCSF is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the world’s top cancer centers. The network brings together leaders in treatment and research to improve the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of cancer care.

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Support services

Support Group

Art for Recovery

Creativity can help people with serious illnesses cope, heal and express what they're going through. Find out about our program and how to join.

Fitness

Cancer Exercise Counseling

Our one-on-one exercise training sessions, customized for your needs and abilities, can complement other cancer treatments and speed your recovery.

Patient Resource

Cancer Nutrition Counseling

UCSF Health offers free nutrition counseling to our patients with cancer, as well as nutrition seminars that are open to anyone. Learn more.

Support Group

Cancer Support Groups

These groups offered by the Ida and Joseph Friend Patient and Family Cancer Support Center are free and available to all patients, whether or not you get your health care at UCSF.

Fitness

Core & More Class for Cancer Patients

A strong body helps you fight cancer and enjoy life. Join this class to stabilize your core, strengthen your muscles and improve overall fitness. For cancer patients and caregivers!

Patient Resource

Friend to Friend Specialty Shops

A one-stop boutique for patients with cancer. Get professional help with wigs, prostheses, sun-protective clothing, makeup, skin care and more.

Class

Meditation & Guided Imagery for Cancer Patients

Drop in for a free class designed to help you heal, relax and find balance during your treatment. UCSF and non-UCSF patients are welcome.

Patient Resource

Oncology Social Work

Social workers offer support, problem-solving, help accessing UCSF cancer-related resources and more. Find out how to contact the social worker for your clinic.

Patient Resource

Patient & Family Cancer Support Center

The center offers wellness programming, community, support groups, classes, workshops and more at no cost to people facing cancer and their loved ones.

Support Group

Peer Support Programs for Cancer

Patients are matched with peer support volunteers according to criteria such as diagnosis, cancer stage, age or gender. Speak to someone who's "been there."

Plan your visit

See insurance plans accepted

Preparing for your appointment

What to Bring

Photo I.D.
Health insurance card
Insurance authorization, if required
Doctor's referral, if required
Recent test results related to your condition
List of your medications, including dosages, plus any you're allergic to
List of questions you may have
Device or paper for taking notes

International Services

If you live outside the United States and are coming to UCSF for medical treatment, our patient liaisons can help coordinate all aspects of your visit.

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Interpreting Services

UCSF offers interpreters in various languages, including American Sign Language (ASL), as well as services for deaf, hard-of-hearing and visually impaired patients.

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Hospital Stays

Make your hospital stay as smooth and comfortable as possible by finding out how to prepare and what to expect.

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Your Doctor Visit

See our top 10 tips for making your UCSF doctor’s appointment as stress-free and productive as possible.

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