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Leiomyosarcoma in NJ, CT, & MD

Leiomyosarcoma is a rare type of sarcoma, which are tumors that begin in the soft and connective tissues. These tumors grow on smooth muscles, which are found in the bladder, intestines, blood vessels, eyes, and other organs. Leiomyosarcoma is also found in prostate cancer, and this type of sarcoma makes up between 5% and 10% of prostate sarcomas. Regional Cancer Care Associates offers expert diagnosis and treatment for prostate leiomyosarcoma and other cancers and blood disorders at its 25 care centers in New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C., area.

What Is Prostate Leiomyosarcoma?

The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It produces the fluid that transports sperm. Located below the bladder, the prostate surrounds the urethra, a tubular structure that carries urine from the bladder. As men age, the prostate naturally increases in size. This is normal and doesn’t always cause problems. However, two common conditions may arise. When an enlarged prostate places pressure on the urethra, it can affect the ability to urinate. This is called benign prostatic hyperplasia. A second condition that affects the prostate is a bacterial infection called prostatitis, which is comparable to a urinary tract infection. Neither of these conditions is cancer.

Prostate cancer occurs when cells mutate, resulting in uncontrollable growth and the formation of tumors. The types of tumors found in prostate cancer vary. When your doctors suspect prostate cancer, a biopsy and subsequent examination by the pathology laboratory will identify the type of tumor – if any – present and its stage of growth.

If the pathology report indicates prostate leiomyosarcoma, it means this relatively rare type of tumor is growing in the prostate gland. As with all prostate cancers, early detection and treatment are advised. Patients should discuss screening options with a medical professional and discuss any symptoms during regularly scheduled examinations.

Paper records a prostate cancer diagnosis

Signs and Symptoms of Prostate Leiomyosarcoma

Unfortunately, there often are no warning signs of prostate cancer in its early stages. Usually, signs and symptoms are noticeable only after tumor growth affects the function of the urinary and reproductive system, or after cancer has spread to other parts of the body. With leiomyosarcoma, patients often have normal levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood, so this screening test may not identify a problem.

Signs and symptoms of prostate cancer include:

  • Frequent urination, especially at night
  • Difficulties with starting or stopping the flow of urine, as well as weak streams
  • Pain or burning when urinating
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control, or constipation
  • Pain or burning during ejaculation, with noticeably less semen
  • Blood in urine or semen
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Rectal pain or pressure
  • Stiffness, weakness, and pain in thighs, hips, or lower back
  • Numbness or weakness in legs or feet
  • Bone pain
  • Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
  • Tiredness, nausea, or vomiting

While these signs and symptoms can indicate many other problems besides prostate cancer, it is important to bring them to the attention of a medical professional.

Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

Risk factors for prostate cancer include:

  • Age: Most men develop prostate cancer only after age 40, and the risk rises steadily after age 50.
  • Ethnicity: Those of Caribbean and African descent have slightly more risk of developing prostate cancer than the overall male population, and Latino men have slightly less risk.
  • Geography: Prostate cancer is more common in North America, the Caribbean, northwestern Europe, and Australia than in other parts of the world.
  • Genetics: Family history and genetics are associated with prostate cancer, as some rare gene mutations have been identified. Prostate cancer in close family relations is also a factor.
  • Lifestyle: There may be a relationship between smoking and obesity or poor diet.
  • Prior medical history: Men who have had a vasectomy, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or prostatitis may be at greater risk of prostate cancer.
Older male patient reviews chart with female doctor

Stages of Prostate Leiomyosarcoma

Once a diagnosis of prostate leiomyosarcoma has been made, the oncology team will stage the tumor. This careful assessment includes an examination of the tumor and determination of the extent of growth. Doctors also want to know whether the leiomyosarcoma has metastasized and spread to other areas of the body or to the lymph nodes. The final step is to assign a grade group. By identifying these factors and considering them together, doctors designate a stage for the patient’s prostate cancer. This helps determine the best treatment options for that person.

Treatment Options for Prostate Leiomyosarcoma

At Regional Cancer Care Associates, the  treatment options considered depend on the specifics of the tumor and its extent as well as other factors related to the individual patient. For prostate leiomyosarcoma, treatment might include:

  • Surgery, including prostatectomy, to remove the cancer.
  • Radiation therapy, which is applied externally or from within the body.
  • Chemotherapy, especially when the cancer has metastasized.
  • Other treatments, such as vaccines, cryotherapy, and hormone therapy.

Consult with Our Prostate Cancer Experts in NJ, CT, & MD

Make an appointment with our cancer experts to obtain a diagnosis or second opinion or to discuss cancer treatment options. Regional Cancer Care Associates offers cancer care at our locations in New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C., area. To discuss care or to make an appointment, contact us today.

Learn More about Prostate Cancer Care at RCCA

If you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer or are concerned about potential symptoms, contact RCCA today. Our team of cancer care specialists will assess the stage of your cancer using the latest diagnostic methods and work with you to design a fully individualized care plan that includes advanced treatment options, the potential for clinical trials, and support that addresses physical and emotional well-being. To speak with a representative right away, please call 844-346-7222.

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