Leiomyosarcoma of the rectum: report of three cases.

Three cases of leiomyosarcoma of the rectum are reported. The first patient underwent palliative surgery and died 18 months after diagnosis; local radiotherapy was not effective and chemotherapy failed as well. The second patient underwent radical surgical treatment but monetheless the tumor recurred and the patient died 37 months after diagnosis. The third patient underwent radical surgery for a tumor that was in an early stage, has been followed for several months without evidence of disease. Review of the literature indicates that leiomyosarcoma of the rectum is the most malignant sarcoma of the gastrointestinal tract, and has a 20 per cent five-year survival rate. Even radical surgical treatment yields disappointing results. Following localized operations, recurrences appear in most cases, and this treatment is not recommended. Should an effective chemotherapeutic combination be found, chemotherapy as an adjuvant to surgery will probably be indicated.