Low-Grade Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma - a Review

Oncol Res Treat. 2018;41(11):687-692. doi: 10.1159/000494225. Epub 2018 Oct 13.

Abstract

Like other uterine sarcomas, low-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas (LG-ESS) are a very rare tumor entity. In the past, research studies therefore discussed the various different types of the disease in combination. In addition, the classification of endometrial stromal tumors presented difficulties for quite some time so that in earlier studies it was not always possible to precisely distinguish between LG-ESS, high-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma, and undifferentiated uterine sarcoma. For LG-ESS, surgery with hysterectomy and adnexectomy is the first-line treatment. The benefits of lymphadenectomy and tumor debulking are unclear. Endocrine therapy with gestagens and aromatase inhibitors is under discussion to provide adjuvant treatment for patients with advanced stages of the disease. As radiotherapy only provides locoregional control, and in view of the usually good prognosis of patients with LG-ESS, its benefits need to be weighed against its side effects. In the case of recurrence, repeat surgery is the first choice. Further research studies viewing LG-ESS as a distinct entity are needed in order to improve treatment options for patients with LG-ESS.

Keywords: Endometrial stromal sarcoma; Undifferentiated endometrial sarcoma; Uterine sarcoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal / therapeutic use
  • Chemotherapy, Adjuvant / methods
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / pathology
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Endometrium / pathology*
  • Endometrium / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hysterectomy / methods
  • Lymph Node Excision / methods
  • Neoplasm Grading
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / diagnosis
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / pathology
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / therapy*
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant / methods
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Reoperation / methods
  • Salpingo-oophorectomy / methods
  • Sarcoma, Endometrial Stromal / diagnosis
  • Sarcoma, Endometrial Stromal / pathology
  • Sarcoma, Endometrial Stromal / therapy*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal