What is EBV-Associated Smooth Muscle Tumour (EBV-SMT)?
EBV-Associated Smooth Muscle Tumour is a rare type of cancer that develops from smooth muscle cells. Smooth muscles are the muscles that work automatically in the body, such as those found in blood vessels, the digestive system, lungs, and uterus.
This tumour is linked to a virus called Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). EBV is a very common virus, and most people are exposed to it at some point in life, but it usually does not cause cancer. EBV-SMT mainly occurs in people whose immune system is weak.
Incidence
EBV-Associated Smooth Muscle Tumour is most often seen in individuals with HIV/AIDS, people who have had organ transplants and are taking medicines to suppress immunity, or children with congenital immune system problems. In these people, the immune system is not strong enough to control the virus, allowing EBV to infect smooth muscle cells and cause abnormal growth.
Symptoms
The symptoms depend on where the tumour develops. If it grows in the brain or spinal cord, it may cause headaches, seizures, weakness, or difficulty walking. When it occurs in the lungs, symptoms may include cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
Tumours in the liver or abdomen can cause abdominal pain, swelling, vomiting, or a feeling of fullness. Sometimes there are multiple tumours in different parts of the body, and general symptoms like weight loss, fever, and tiredness may also be present.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made using imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI to locate the tumour. A biopsy is then performed, where a small piece of tissue is examined under the microscope. Special laboratory tests are used to confirm the presence of EBV inside the tumour cells, which is essential to make the correct diagnosis. This tumour looks different from common muscle cancers and behaves in a unique way.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the patient’s condition and the number of tumours. Surgery is often used to remove accessible tumours, especially if they are causing pressure symptoms. Improving the immune system is a key part of management.
In people with HIV, starting or adjusting antiretroviral therapy can help control the disease. In transplant patients, reducing immune-suppressing medicines may slow tumour growth. Chemotherapy and radiation are sometimes used, but their effectiveness varies.
Prognosis
The outcome of EBV-SMT depends more on the strength of the immune system than on how the tumour looks under the microscope. Some tumours grow slowly, while others can behave aggressively.
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: