What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Leiomyoma of Small Bowel
• Small Bowel Leiomyoma
• Small Intestinal Leiomyoma

What is Leiomyoma of Small Intestine? (Definition/Background Information)

• Leiomyoma of Small Intestine is a very rare benign tumor that forms in the small bowel/intestine. Leiomyomas arise from smooth muscles and are usually less than 3 cm in size. It can occur in both children and adults
• The cause of tumor formation is unknown in most cases, but research has indicated that certain genetic factors are involved. Leiomyoma of Small Intestine may arise sporadically, or in the presence of an associated genetic disorder
• Small-sized tumors are not known to cause any significant symptoms, but larger tumors may lead to abdominal discomfort and compression of adjoining organs
• A complete surgical removal of the lesion results in a cure. In a majority, the prognosis of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine is excellent and it does not recur after removal

Who gets Leiomyoma of Small Intestine? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Leiomyoma of Small Intestine is mostly seen in adults; a peak presentation period of 50-60 years is noted
• When children and/or young adults are affected, the tumor is mostly seen in the background of a predisposing (genetic) factor
• Both males and females are affected
• All races and ethnic groups are at risk for tumor development

What are the Risk Factors for Leiomyoma of Small Intestine? (Predisposing Factors)

• Currently, no definitive risk factors for Leiomyoma of Small Intestine are known, when the tumors occur sporadically
• However, in some cases, an association of the tumor with certain genetic disorders may be noted. In such cases, a family history of the condition may be a risk factor

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine is unknown; although, researchers have documented certain genetic abnormalities within the tumor.

What are the Sign and Symptoms of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine?

Small-sized Leiomyoma of Small Intestine may not cause any significant symptoms and are detected incidentally. In others, the following signs and symptoms may be noted:

• Abdominal discomfort and pain may be noted
• Most tumors are small-sized, while some may grow to over 5 cm in size
• The tumors may be located anywhere in the small intestine
• In most cases, a solitary nodule is observed; while, in some cases, there may be multiple tumors (due to an underlying genetic disorder)
• Tumors may rarely ulcerate and bleed
• In some cases, massive rectal bleeding may be noted, which has to be treated promptly

The tumors behave in a similar manner as leiomyoma tumors of the large intestine and/or rectum.

How is Leiomyoma of Small Intestine Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine may be undertaken using the following tests and exams:

• Complete evaluation of family (medical) history, along with a thorough physical examination
• Stool sample analysis
• X-ray of the abdomen and pelvic region
• Barium enema X-ray
• Endoscopy for tumors in the duodenum (upper part of the small intestine). Capsule endoscopy is an effective tool for observing the small intestine along its entire length
• CT or MRI scan of the abdomen and pelvic region: CT scan with contrast or enteroclysis is a reliable procedure for diagnosing the tumor
• Abdominal ultrasound scan
• Upper GI endoscopy: An endoscopic procedure is performed using an instrument called an endoscope, which consists of a thin tube and a camera. Using this technique, the radiologist can have a thorough examination of the insides of the gastrointestinal tract
• Screening colonoscopy: A typical colonoscopy involves using a thin, flexible tube (called a colonoscope), with an attached video camera, to view the colon and rectum. It may help view the ileal and jejunal portions too
• Tissue biopsy of the tumor:
  • A tissue biopsy of the tumor is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. Examination of the biopsy under a microscope by a pathologist is considered to be gold standard in arriving at a conclusive diagnosis
  • Biopsy specimens are studied initially using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. The pathologist then decides on additional studies depending on the clinical situation
  • Sometimes, the pathologist may perform special studies, which may include immunohistochemical stains, molecular testing, and very rarely, electron microscopic studies to assist in the diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine?

Some potential complications of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine include:

• Emotional and psychological stress due to cancer diagnosis
• Obstruction of the small intestine by large tumor masses
• Intussusception, requiring surgical correction
• Recurrence of the tumor after treatment, especially due to partial surgical removal
• Post-operative complications: Infection of the surgical wound after operating upon the tumor
• Anastomotic leak; leakage of GI tract contents following surgical procedures, which can result in severe infection and even sepsis

How is Leiomyoma of Small Intestine Treated?

Due to the benign (non-cancerous) nature of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine, small-sized tumors do not generally require any treatment. However, in a majority of cases, these tumors are surgically removed.

• In some rare cases, the healthcare provider may recommend a ‘wait and watch’ approach for small-sized tumors, after diagnosis of the tumor is confirmed
• A complete surgical resection of the tumor is usually curative. It is normally undertaken when significant symptoms are observed
• Additionally, treatment measures for any underlying genetic disorder is also instituted

Regular observation and periodic checkups to monitor the condition is strongly recommended following treatment.

How can Leiomyoma of Small Intestine be Prevented?

Presently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent the formation of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine. However, if it is associated with a genetic disorder, the following points may be considered:

• Genetic counseling and testing: If there is a family history of the condition, then genetic counseling will help assess risks, before planning for a child
• Regular health check-ups might help those individuals with a history of the condition in the immediate family and help diagnose the tumor early
• Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with blood tests, scans, and physical examinations are recommended

What is the Prognosis of Leiomyoma of Small Intestine? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis for individuals with Leiomyoma of Small Intestine is generally excellent in case of sporadic tumors (that occur in a majority)
• The prognosis of individuals with tumors against a background of a genetic disorder, depend on the severity of the symptoms and complications of the underlying genetic condition

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Leiomyoma of Small Intestine:

The following article link will help you understand other cancers and benign tumors:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/