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

• Gastric Leiomyoma
• Stomach Leiomyoma

What is Leiomyoma of Stomach? (Definition/Background Information)

• Leiomyoma of Stomach is a very rare benign tumor that forms in the stomach. 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 is unknown in most cases, but research has indicated that certain genetic factors are involved. Leiomyoma of Stomach 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. The prognosis of Leiomyoma of Stomach is excellent and it does not recur after removal

Who gets Leiomyoma of Stomach? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Leiomyoma of Stomach is an uncommon benign tumor that is mostly present in older adults
• When the tumor is seen among younger populations, it may be seen in the background of an underlying genetic disorder
• Both males and females are affected
• No racial or ethnic predilection is observed

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

• Currently, no definitive risk factors for Leiomyoma of Stomach 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 Stomach? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Leiomyoma of Stomach is unknown. Researchers have documented certain genetic abnormalities within the tumor.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Leiomyoma of Stomach?

Some small-sized Gastric Leiomyomas 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 stomach. Some are seen close to the esophagogastric junction
• In most cases, a solitary nodule is observed; while, in some cases, there may be multiple tumors (due to an underlying genetic disorder)
• Most tumors are reported to be well-differentiated
• Tumors are rarely known to ulcerate and bleed

How is Leiomyoma of Stomach Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Leiomyoma of Stomach would involve:

• Complete physical exam with evaluation of medical history
• Ultrasound scan of the stomach/abdomen: It is a non-invasive procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to produce real-time images
• Abdominal CT scan: It is a noninvasive procedure that provides more details of soft tissues, blood vessels, and internal organs
• Stool sample analysis
• 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
• Chromoendoscopy can help detect small-sized tumors; small tumors can also be detected using narrow band imaging technique
• Endoscopic ultrasonography: During this procedure, fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) can be performed on the affected area. This is good technique for tumor detection including tumor invasion parameters, and whether nearby lymph nodes are affected
• Exploratory laparoscopy (diagnostic laparoscopy) may be required, if gastrointestinal symptoms are present. In this procedure, the abdomen is examined using a minimally-invasive technique, and a tissue biopsy and tissue for culture obtained

Although the above modalities can be used to make an initial diagnosis, a tissue biopsy of the tumor is necessary to make a definitive diagnosis to begin treatment. The tissue for diagnosis can be procured in multiple different ways which include:

• Fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy of the tumor: A FNA biopsy may not be helpful, because one may not be able to visualize the different morphological areas of the tumor and the tumor may be misdiagnosed. Hence, a FNA biopsy as a diagnostic tool has certain limitations, and an open surgical biopsy is preferred
• Core biopsy of the tumor
• Open biopsy of the tumor

Tissue biopsy:

• 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 Stomach?

The complications of Leiomyoma of Stomach are normally rare; but in some cases, large tumors may cause the following complications:

• Ulceration of the tumor can lead to secondary infections of bacteria and fungus
• Compression of the underlying nerve, which can affect nerve function
• Obstruction of the gastric passageway
• Damage to the muscles, vital nerves, and blood vessels, during surgery
• Post-surgical infection at the wound site is a potential complication

How is Leiomyoma of Stomach Treated?

Due to the benign (non-cancerous) nature of Leiomyoma of Stomach, small-sized tumors do not generally require any treatment. However, they may be removed to confirm the diagnosis.

• In some 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

Note: If malignancy of smooth muscle tumors is uncertain, then surgical excision and regular follow-up is typically advocated.

How can Leiomyoma of Stomach be Prevented?

Currently, no known preventive methods exist for Leiomyoma of Stomach. However, in case it is associated with a genetic disorder, then the following 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

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

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

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Leiomyoma of Stomach:

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

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