Uterine sarcoma is a rare form of cancer that arises in the muscle layer (myometrium) or connective tissues of the uterus, distinguishing it from more common uterine cancers, which typically originate in the lining (endometrium) and are classified as endometrial carcinomas.
WHAT IS UTERINE SARCOMA
Uterine sarcoma can present with a variety of symptoms, many of which may overlap with other conditions. It is important to note that experiencing these symptoms does not necessarily mean a woman has uterine sarcoma, but they should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Here are the common symptoms associated with uterine sarcoma:
- Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: This is one of the most prevalent symptoms. Women may experience bleeding between periods, heavier menstrual bleeding, bleeding after menopause or prolonged bleeding.
- Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic region or abdomen. This pain can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
- Bowel or urine issues: Compressive symptoms in the rectum, urinating (peeing) more frequently than normal may be caused by a pelvic mass pressing on the bladder. Additionally, it may cause constipation.
- Bloating: Feeling of fullness in the abdomen, which can be associated with the presence of a tumour.
- Mass: Mass can be felt at tummy.
The following are some factors that may raise your risk of uterine sarcoma:
- Previous Radiation Therapy: Women who have undergone radiation treatment to the pelvis for other cancers, such as cervical or rectal cancer, may have an increased risk of developing uterine sarcoma.
- Genetic Factors: Certain genetic conditions, such as hereditary retinoblastoma, can increase the risk of developing uterine sarcoma.
- Tamoxifen Use: Tamoxifen, a medication commonly used to treat or prevent breast cancer, has been associated with an increased risk of uterine sarcoma.
- Body weight: Higher body mass index (BMI) is linked to an increased risk of uterine sarcoma.
- Age: Above 40 years old.
Symptoms
Uterine sarcoma can present with a variety of symptoms, many of which may overlap with other conditions. It is important to note that experiencing these symptoms does not necessarily mean a woman has uterine sarcoma, but they should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Here are the common symptoms associated with uterine sarcoma:
- Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: This is one of the most prevalent symptoms. Women may experience bleeding between periods, heavier menstrual bleeding, bleeding after menopause or prolonged bleeding.
- Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic region or abdomen. This pain can vary in intensity and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
- Bowel or urine issues: Compressive symptoms in the rectum, urinating (peeing) more frequently than normal may be caused by a pelvic mass pressing on the bladder. Additionally, it may cause constipation.
- Bloating: Feeling of fullness in the abdomen, which can be associated with the presence of a tumour.
- Mass: Mass can be felt at tummy.
Risk factors
The following are some factors that may raise your risk of uterine sarcoma:
- Previous Radiation Therapy: Women who have undergone radiation treatment to the pelvis for other cancers, such as cervical or rectal cancer, may have an increased risk of developing uterine sarcoma.
- Genetic Factors: Certain genetic conditions, such as hereditary retinoblastoma, can increase the risk of developing uterine sarcoma.
- Tamoxifen Use: Tamoxifen, a medication commonly used to treat or prevent breast cancer, has been associated with an increased risk of uterine sarcoma.
- Body weight: Higher body mass index (BMI) is linked to an increased risk of uterine sarcoma.
- Age: Above 40 years old.
Diagnosis
Difficult to diagnose and can only be confirmed by histopathology. Diagnosing uterine sarcoma typically involves a combination of imaging tests. Here are the main steps in the diagnostic process:
Medical history and physical examination
To determine whether the uterus is larger than usual, a pelvic exam and general physical examination will be performed.
Pelvic ultrasound
Often the first imaging test performed. It helps visualise the uterus and can identify abnormalities such as masses.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
If abnormalities are detected, an MRI may be used to provide more detailed images of the uterus and surrounding tissues. This helps in assessing the size and extent of the tumour.
CT Scans
CT scans help determine if the cancer has spread to other organs.
Treatment
The treatment for aggressive and poor prognosis of uterine sarcoma primarily depends on the stage of the cancer, the type of sarcoma, and the patient’s overall health. Here are the main treatment options:
Surgery
The goal is to remove as much of the cancer as possible, which may involve a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and possibly the removal of surrounding tissues, including the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
Radiotherapy
This may be used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, especially if the cancer is at a higher stage or if there are concerns about recurrence.
Chemotherapy
This treatment uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
Prevention
While prevention strategies are not well-defined, women who are at higher risk due to the risk factors:
- Regular Pelvic Exams: Women taking tamoxifen or those with a history of pelvic radiation should have regular check-ups to monitor for any abnormal symptoms, such as unusual vaginal bleeding
- Awareness of Symptoms: Being vigilant about symptoms like abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment, which is crucial given the aggressive nature of uterine sarcomas.
Prognosis
The precise course of a disease cannot be predicted by a doctor because it depends on the circumstances of each patient. However, the prognosis for uterine sarcoma varies significantly based on several factors, including the type of sarcoma, the stage at diagnosis, and the patient’s overall health. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates.
