Early diagnosis and resection of an asymptomatic leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava prior to caval obstruction

Abstract

Leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava is a rare and aggressive tumor, characterized by a slow growth and usually late diagnosis. The mainstay of therapy is surgical resection with limited role for chemotherapy or radiotherapy; resection modalities and the need for caval reconstruction are still matters of debate. In this case report, we describe an asymptomatic intraluminal leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava diagnosed incidentally prior to caval occlusion during a routine ultrasound examination of the upper abdomen.