Rare Case of Primary Peritoneal Carcinosarcoma

Introduction

Carcinosarcoma is a rare Mullerian tumour which typically originates from the genital tract in post-menopausal Women. Less than 5% of uterine cancers are carcinosarcomas.

Carcinosarcomas are highly aggressive biphasic neoplasms composed of carcinomatous and sarcomatous elements.

Complete cytoreduction surgery is the mainstay of treatment for primary peritoneal carcinomas. Systemic chemotherapy is advised in all cases because of the early spreading of these tumours.

The majority of cases are described in women over the age of 40 

First case describe in 1955 by Ober and Black.1

 

Background

73 year old, with two previous vaginal deliveries.

Referred by her GP to the colorectal team with vague symptoms of pyrexia, nausea, reduced appetite, left sided abdominal heaviness and a change in bowel habit.

When reviewed in gynaecology clinic a lump was noticed on the left side of the abdomen.

Past medical history of hypertension, diverticular disease, mechanical back pain, sciatica and appendicectomy.

Drug history: Felodipine

Retired civil servant with overall performance status of 1.