Diagnosis and treatment in a case of uterine leiomyosarcoma - case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction: Uterine leiomyosarcoma accounts for approximately 3%–7% of all uterine cancers and it is the most common subtype of uterine sarcoma. They are associated with high potential to both local recurrence and distant metastases, and they contribute to a significant proportion of uterine cancer deaths. Tumor stage is the single most important prognostic factor for uterine sarcomas. Presenting symptoms may be vague and mimic other benign uterine conditions.
The aim of the study: This study aims to describe a case of uterine leiomyosarcoma and summarize current knowledge about classification, diagnostics and treatment.
Materials and methods: The research method was a case study. This review was based on available data collected in the PubMed database and Google Scholar web search engine, using the key words: uterine leiomyosarcoma, uterine sarcoma, hysterectomy, gynecologic oncology.
Conclusion: Surgery is considered the mainstay of treatment for sarcomas limited to the uterus. In patients with carcinosarcomas postoperative radiotherapy increases the local control. High rate of distant metastases suggests potential role of systemic therapy. However, the benefits of postoperative chemotherapy and endocrine therapy in high-risk patients are of no proven value in the adjuvant setting. These methods, in addition to palliative radiotherapy and surgery are used in recurrent and advanced disease.
Keywords: uterine leiomyosarcoma, uterine sarcoma, hysterectomy, gynecologic oncology