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Ewing’s Sarcoma

 Inspirational comeback stories abound in the world of sports.  This year’s NFL season is no exception with the come-from-behind, underdog victories by the Denver, Broncos led by Tim Tebow.  One story that bears noting is the return of Mark Herzlich to the sport many thought was part of his past and not his future.

 Herzlich is a 24-year-old linebacker for the New York Giants who was diagnosed with a form of bone cancer called Ewing’s Sarcoma while playing for Boston College.  His treatment included chemotherapy, radiation therapy and excision of the tumor that involved the largest bone in the human body, the femur.  The bone shaft was reinforced with a titanium rod.

 A two-year course of physical therapy and intense training followed.  After being invited to try out for the New York Giants, he accomplished something many people thought was impossible, he made the team.

 Ewing’s sarcoma is a malignant tumor that is typically seen in children and young adults.  It generally appears in the long bones of the body. 

The most common presenting symptom is intense bone pain.  Unfortunately, in approximately one third of patients, the tumor has already spread to the lungs and other bones at the time of diagnosis.

Treatment of Ewing’s sarcoma includes aggressive chemotherapy and radiation therapy that is focused on the tumor site.  Surgical excision of the tumor follows. 

 Dr. Dinesh Kapur, an oncologist and Director of Cancer Services at the William W. Backus Hospital, isn’t surprised by Herzlich’s recovery.  “Early detection combined with the multimodality approach of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery has dramatically improved survival from Ewing’s Sarcoma,” said Kapur.

 Mark Herzlich’s return to the highest level of professional sports not only required a combination of modern medical therapies but an unwavering spirit and commitment to succeed.

 Anthony G. Alessi, MD, is Stroke Center Medical Director at The William W. Backus Hospital and in private practice at NeuroDiagnostics, LLC, in Norwich. E-mail him at aalessi@wwbh.org, or listen to his podcasts, comment on his blog or buy his book at www.backushospital.org.