Leiomyosarcoma is a rare type of malignant cancer that develops in smooth muscle cells. A study in the January 2001 issue of "Archives of Pathology Lab Medicine" notes that in addition to their case report, only 21 cases of pancreatic leiomyosarcoma have been reported worldwide. Leiomyosarcomas most often arise in the female genital tract or gastrointestinal tract, and therefore it is critical to carefully examine these areas in order to make sure the pancreatic leiomyosarcoma has not metastasized from another site. This type of tumor does not respond well to chemotherapy or radiation therapy and is most often treated by surgical removal.
Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain was present in five of 22 patients with pancreatic leiomyosarcoma. Cancers can cause intense pain as they grow by compressing nerves and other nearby organs.
Weight Loss
Of the 22 case reports, four indicated significant weight loss in patients with pancreatic leiomyosarcoma. Many cancers are associated with progressive weight loss as the cancer grows. Cancers in the intestines and nearby organs, such as the pancreas, may also impede appetite and cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Nausea
Three of 22 patients with pancreatic leiomyosarcoma exhibited nausea and vomiting.
High Fever
The case report in the January 2001 issue of "Archives of Pathology Lab Medicine" noted that nine months after surgical removal of the pancreatic leiomyosarcoma, the patient was readmitted with a spiking fever.
Metastasis
Metastasis is the process by which cancers in one area shed cells into the bloodstream, where they are transported to other tissues and produce secondary cancers. A report in "Cases Journal" stated that pancreatic leiomyosarcoma has a high potential of metastasis.
