Lower Extremity Varicose Veins: An Unusual Presentation of Small Bowel Leiomyosarcoma

Abstract

Leiomyosarcomas (LMSs) are extremely rare and comprise only 1.2% of small bowel malignancies. Advancements in immunohistochemical techniques have allowed for the differentiation between LMSs and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. LMSs remain difficult to detect via endoscopy and require a more intricate diagnostic approach. The staging and sizing of these tumors are important prognostic indicators. We report a case of a 67-year-old male who presented with bulging lower extremity veins, abdominal bloating, and weight loss. A CT of the abdomen and pelvis revealed a pelvic mass arising from the small bowel and a metastatic hepatic lesion, which was found to be compressing the inferior vena cava. A biopsy of the hepatic lesion confirmed the diagnosis of metastatic LMS.