Malignant mixed Müllerian tumor
Malignant mixed Müllerian tumor (also known as MMM or Carcinosarcoma) is a rare form of cancer that primarily affects the female reproductive system. It is characterized by the presence of both carcinoma (cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs) and sarcoma (cancer that begins in bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or other connective or supportive tissue) cells.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
MMM is most commonly diagnosed in postmenopausal women, with the average age at diagnosis being 60 years. It accounts for approximately 1-2% of all gynecologic malignancies.
Pathogenesis[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of MMM is unknown. However, it is believed to arise from a single stem cell that differentiates into both carcinomatous and sarcomatous components. Some studies suggest that the carcinomatous component may transform into the sarcomatous component through a process known as epithelial-mesenchymal transition.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Patients with MMM typically present with abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and an enlarged uterus. On physical examination, a pelvic mass may be palpable.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of MMM is usually made based on the findings of a biopsy. Imaging studies such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be used to assess the extent of the disease.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
The primary treatment for MMM is surgery, which typically involves a hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. This may be followed by radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy depending on the stage of the disease.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for patients with MMM is generally poor, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 50%. Factors that may influence prognosis include the stage of the disease at diagnosis, the patient's age, and the presence of other health conditions.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Cancer
- Carcinoma
- Sarcoma
- Gynecologic malignancy
- Epithelial-mesenchymal transition
- Hysterectomy
- Salpingo-oophorectomy
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
