Case Report: Leiomyosarcoma of the right external iliac artery: a diagnostic-based study on a rare case

Abstract

Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is an uncommon and aggressive form of cancer that originates in the smooth muscles. It possesses the capacity for rapid growth and often manifests with general, nonspecific symptoms arising from the displacement of nearby structures rather than direct invasion. In this particular instance, an 81-year-old woman presented with right lower abdominal pain, leading to the discovery of a mass adjacent to the right external iliac artery. In this case, the patient was misdiagnosed initially because of her nonspecific and poorly distinguished clinical symptoms. The laboratory results were within normal ranges. A well-defined tumor was detected through laparoscopic operation and subsequently surgically excised. The histopathological analysis of the tumor revealed the presence of malignant spindle cells, nuclear pleomorphism, and tumor giant cells. Immunohistochemistry tests indicated positive results for CD34 and Desmin, while CD117 and DOG1 showed adverse effects. It is worth noting that LMS of the right external iliac artery is an infrequent occurrence, potentially resulting in delayed diagnosis and misidentification. To enhance our comprehension of this uncommon cancer, more cases with detailed information are essential.