A type of cancer originating in smooth muscle cells called leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is a rare and aggressive one. There are many organs and tissues in the body that contain smooth muscle cells, including the uterus, stomach, intestines, blood vessels, and skin. It is most commonly found in the uterus, stomach, arms and legs, and small intestine, though it may affect any of these areas.
The exact cause of LMS is unknown, but it may be related to genetic mutations that make the smooth muscle cells grow abnormally and uncontrollably. Some factors that may increase the risk of developing LMS include:
Age: LMS is more common in people over 50 years old.
Gender: LMS is more common in women than in men.
Radiation exposure: LMS may develop years after receiving radiation therapy for another type of cancer.
Chemical exposure: LMS may be linked to exposure to certain chemicals, such as dioxins, vinyl chloride, and weedkillers.
Family history: LMS may run in some families, suggesting a possible inherited predisposition.
The symptoms of LMS depend on the size and location of the tumor. Some people may not have any symptoms until the tumor becomes large or spreads to other parts of the body. Some of the possible symptoms of LMS are:
A lump or swelling under the skin that may or may not be painful.
Abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, or bleeding from the digestive tract.
Vaginal bleeding, discharge, or pain, especially after menopause.
Frequent or painful urination, blood in the urine, or kidney problems.
Shortness of breath, cough, chest pain, or blood in the sputum.
Fever, fatigue, weight loss, or night sweats.
LMS can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are similar to other conditions and because it can occur in different parts of the body. To confirm the diagnosis of LMS, the doctor may perform one or more of the following tests:
Physical examination: The doctor will check for any signs of LMS, such as lumps, swelling, or tenderness.
Blood tests: The doctor will check for any abnormal levels of blood cells, electrolytes, or kidney function.
Biopsy: The doctor will take a small sample of tissue from the suspected tumor and examine it under a microscope to look for cancer cells.
Imaging tests: The doctor will use X-rays, ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or PET scan to get a detailed picture of the tumor and see if it has spread to other organs.
The treatment of LMS depends on the stage, location, size, and type of the tumor, as well as the patient’s age, health, and preferences. The main treatment options for LMS are:
In order to prevent recurrence, the doctor may attempt to remove the entire tumor as well as some healthy tissue surrounding it. Sometimes, surgery may also involve removal of part or all of an affected organ, such as the uterus, stomach, or kidney.
A doctor will use drugs to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given before or after surgery or as a main treatment if surgery is not feasible or effective. The drugs used to treat LMS include doxorubicin, ifosfamide, gemcitabine, docetaxel, and trabectedin.
Radiation therapy: High-energy rays are used to destroy or shrink cancer cells. If surgery is not possible or effective, radiation therapy can also be used as the main treatment. Radiation therapy can also relieve pain and bleeding caused by LMS.
Drugs that target specific molecules or pathways involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells will be used by the doctor. pazopanib, olaratumab, and sunitinib are some of the drugs used to treat LMS, which can be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
There is no sure way to prevent LMS, but some steps that may help reduce the risk include:
Avoiding exposure to radiation or chemicals that may cause LMS.
Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Maintaining a healthy weight and being physically active.
Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake.
Having regular check-ups and screenings for any signs of LMS, especially if there is a family history or a previous radiation therapy.
