What is Adenosarcoma of the Uterus?
Adenosarcoma of the Uterus also known as uterine adenosarcoma is a rare form of uterine cancer that contains a mix of cancerous glandular (adenomatous) and non-glandular (sarcomatous) components. It’s a type of mixed tumour that arises from the endometrium, the lining of the uterus. Adenosarcomas account for a very small percentage of all uterine malignancies, but they can be aggressive and may recur after initial treatment.Symptoms
Symptoms of adenosarcoma of the uterus may include:- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, often postmenopausal
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- A palpable mass or lump in the pelvic area
- Unexplained weight loss
Disease Aetiology (Causes)
The exact cause of adenosarcoma of the uterus is not known. Like other cancers, it likely involves genetic mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell growth. Certain factors, such as a history of pelvic radiation therapy or exposure to tamoxifen (a drug used to treat breast cancer), may increase the risk.Diagnosis
The diagnosis of adenosarcoma often involves:- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Endometrial biopsy or dilation and curettage (D&C) to obtain tissue for examination under a microscope
- Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to ascertain the size, location, and extent of the tumour
Treatment
The treatment for adenosarcoma of the uterus typically involves:- Surgery: The primary treatment, involves the surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy), along with the fallopian tubes and ovaries.
- Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy: These may be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence, particularly for more aggressive tumours or if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.