How fast do esophageal leiomyomas grow?

Table of Contents

It is reported that small esophageal leiomyomas are generally slow growing, and most of them are stable in lesion size over 3 years and more (9), while the large leiomyomas may grow rapidly and expand to 3 times or more in less than 3 years (3,9).

Is esophageal leiomyoma cancerous?

Leiomyomas are benign tumors descending from smooth muscle cells of the esophagus. They are the most common benign tumors of the esophagus and they may occur in all parts of the esophagus, but 60% occur in the distal third, 30% in the middle, and 10% in the proximal esophagus (4).

What are the symptoms of esophageal polyps?

Most esophageal polyps arise from the cervical or upper esophagus. No symptoms are initially perceived, but with the growth of the neoplasm, symptoms such as dysphagia, vomiting, retrosternal pain, shortness of breath, and/or asthma may occur. A fresh mass may also be regurgitated into the mouth.

How common are benign esophageal tumors?

Benign esophageal tumors are rare, with a prevalence ≤ 0.5%[1], while benign tumors represent 20% of esophageal neoplasms on autopsy[2].

How is leiomyoma of the esophagus treated?

Surgical excision is recommended for symptomatic leiomyomas and those greater than 5 cm. Asymptomatic or smaller lesions should be followed periodically with barium swallow. Resection is the only way to confirm that a tumor is not malignant.

How is esophageal leiomyoma diagnosed?

A CT scan is a valuable investigation in confirming the diagnosis. CT scan will show a mass of uniform density arising in the esophageal wall. Currently, endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has become a critical investigation for diagnosis of esophageal leiomyoma.

Can you feel an esophageal tumor?

Chest pain Someone with esophageal cancer may experience pain in the middle of the chest that feels like pressure or burning. This discomfort can often be confused with other problems, such as heartburn, so it is difficult to recognize it as a symptom.

Are esophageal tumors always malignant?

Sometimes a tumor develops in your esophagus that is not cancerous (benign). The most common type—representing about 70 percent of benign tumors—is leiomyoma, which forms in the muscle. Doctors do not know what causes benign esophageal tumors.

How common is leiomyoma in esophagus?

Esophageal leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors of the esophagus. They are rare lesions that constitute less than 1% of esophageal neoplasms. Approximately two-thirds of benign esophageal tumors are leiomyomas; the others are usually cysts and polyps and cysts.

How common are Leiomyomas?

Leiomyoma is the most common gynecological tumor. They affect 30–50% of the female population in reproductive age, and are predominantly found among individuals of African descent.

What are the signs of esophagus problems?

What are the symptoms of esophageal disorders?

Abdominal pain, chest pain or back pain.
Chronic cough or sore throat.
Difficulty swallowing or feeling like food is stuck in your throat.
Heartburn (burning feeling in your chest).
Hoarseness or wheezing.
Indigestion (burning feeling in your stomach).