Rare Uterine Cancer, Leiomyosarcoma, Diagnosed and Treated at Mercy

Leiomyosarcoma is a rare type of uterine cancer that forms in the smooth muscle cells of the uterine wall. Leiomyosaroma affects the body's involuntary muscles, those muscles which function without the brain processing the function. The uterus is a muscular organ that expands and contracts when a woman is pregnant.

The symptoms of leiomyosarcoma are similar to other conditions making it hard to diagnose. Often leiomyosarcoma is not diagnosed officially until surgery is performed. It is important to see a doctor who specializes in female reproductive tract cancers should any of the following symptoms occur:

• Abnormal bleeding
• Bleeding after menopause
• Lump in the vagina
• Pain in the abdomen or pelvis
• Frequent urination

Surgery is the primary treatment for leiomyosarcoma. Depending on the severity of the leiomyosarcoma, surgery can include removal of the uterus only or removal of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. Radiation and chemotherapy also may be recommended.