What is Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma?
Retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma is a type of cancer that arises from the large blood vessels lying behind the abdominal cavity called the peritoneum. It is usually developed in the 5th and 6th decade of life but may also affect children between the age of 5,6 years. It usually grows in size before diagnosis.
What is Retroperitoneum?
The retroperitoneum is an anatomical space located behind the abdominal cavity. The organs of the abdominal cavity, such as the kidneys, adrenal glands, pancreas, nerve roots, large vessels of the abdominal cavity, and the inferior vena cava, are located in the retroperitoneal space.
Disease Causes
It is the second most common cancer of the abdomen or retroperitoneum. There is no well-known cause, however, some hereditary and genetic mutations (changes in the DNA sequence) are considered responsible for the development of retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma. Some risk factors, such as previous radiation therapy, and exposure to certain chemicals such as pesticides, are powerful risk factors for developing retroperitoneal leiomyosarcoma.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Pain in the abdomen
- Lump or mass in the abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloating in abdomen
- Unintentional weight loss
- Constant Fatigue
- Constant fever
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are;
- Imaging techniques like ultrasound of the abdomen, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan to see the site, size, and extent of the tumor.
- Tumor biopsy (tumor biopsy to remove a small sample of tissue for histopathological examination)
- USG guided fine needle aspiration cytology
Treatment
Surgical resection (surgical removal of the tumor part of the body) of the tumor is the main treatment; other treatment options are chemotherapy, radiation therapy and targeted immunotherapy.
What Support can we Give for Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma?
Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
