Learn about pelvic tumors, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Discover the latest research and find support for pelvic tumor management on Meri Sehat.

Pelvic Tumors

Humza Khizer

Overview

<p>Any benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) growth or enlargement that develops in the cervix, ovary, uterus or a nearby structure in the lower abdomen is referred to as a pelvic mass or pelvic tumor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A tumor is defined as abnormal or excessive tissue growth. A pelvic tumor, or pelvic mass, can occur in any of the gynecologic or pelvic organs, such as the bladder, kidneys, intestines, uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and surrounding tissues. These pelvic masses can arise due to several reasons, such as ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, and even cancers. While most pelvic masses are benign, they are more likely to be cancerous in postmenopausal women<sup><a href="#accordion">[1]</a></sup>.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since pelvic tumors can originate anywhere in the pelvic cavity, the tumors can be divided based on their location.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h5><strong>Tumors Occupying Specific Organs</strong></h5>

<ul>
	<li>Bladder cancer</li>
	<li>Rectal cancer</li>
	<li><a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/prostate-cancer">Prostate cancer</a></li>
	<li>Anal cancer</li>
	<li>Uterine cancer</li>
	<li><a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/ovarian-cancer">Ovarian cancer</a></li>
	<li>Sacrococcygeal teratoma<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<h5><strong>Tumors Occupying Intra-Organ Spaces</strong></h5>

<p><strong>Presacral Space</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Teratoma<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Sacral Space</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Teratoma</li>
	<li>Ganglioneuroma</li>
	<li><a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/lipomas">Lipoma</a></li>
	<li>Myxopapillary ependymoma</li>
	<li>Aneurysmal bone cyst</li>
	<li>Primitive neuroectodermal tumor</li>
	<li>Ewing&#39;s sarcoma</li>
	<li>Metastases from brain stem tumors (medulloblastoma, ependymoma, high-grade astrocytoma)<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Signs and Symptoms

<p>Often, pelvic masses do not cause any symptoms; thus, going unnoticed. However, in some people, it can cause the following signs and symptoms:</p>

<ul>
	<li>Pelvic pain</li>
	<li>Bloating or abdominal swelling</li>
	<li>Nausea</li>
	<li>Vomiting</li>
	<li>Frequent urge to urinate</li>
	<li>Bleeding between periods</li>
	<li>Menorrhagia</li>
	<li>Irregular menstrual cycles</li>
	<li>Altered bowel habits<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Note:</strong> Given the wide range of diseases that can lead to the development of a female pelvic tumor, it is crucial to see a doctor as soon as you notice any of these symptoms.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

Causes

<p>Pelvic tumors can develop in the female reproductive tract (e.g., uterus, fallopian tube, ovary) or other pelvic organs (e.g., bladder, intestines). Moreover, they can affect all age groups. In infants, a pelvic mass can form due to the maternal hormones stimulating the development of follicular ovarian cysts in utero or during the first few months of life. However, this is rare.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>In women of reproductive age, the following are the most common causes of pelvic tumors:<sup><a href="#accordion">[1]</a></sup></p>

<ul>
	<li>Uterine fibroids</li>
	<li><a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/ovarian-cyst">Ovarian cysts</a></li>
	<li>Ectopic pregnancies</li>
	<li>Endometriosis</li>
	<li>Benign tumors</li>
	<li><a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/ovarian-cancer">Ovarian cancer</a></li>
	<li>Fallopian tube cancer<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<p>In postmenopausal women, a pelvic mass is more likely to be cancerous. Cancers of the breast, stomach, or colon often present as an adnexal mass.</p>

<p>In many cases, the exact cause of pelvic tumors is not known. Some tumors may develop spontaneously, without any clear underlying cause or risk factor.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>While there are no specific screening tests for pelvic tumors, regular pelvic exams can help detect any mass in the pelvic region.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

Diagnosis

<p>The diagnosis of pelvic tumors typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and biopsy procedures.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>History</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor will first take a detailed history from the patient. They will assess the patient for symptoms that may result from a pelvic tumor. For example, pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, postmenopausal bleeding, or problems urinating.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="2">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Physical Exam</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>A doctor may perform a pelvic exam to feel for any lumps or abnormalities in the pelvic area. They may also examine the rectum and/or vagina to check for any signs of a tumor.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="3">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Imaging Tests</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Imaging tests, such as transvaginal ultrasound, CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans can help to visualize the size and location of a pelvic tumor. These tests may also be used to check for any signs of metastasis (spread) to other parts of the body.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="4">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Biopsy</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>If imaging tests suggest the presence of a tumor, a doctor may perform a biopsy to collect a sample of tissue for analysis. This can help to confirm the presence of a tumor and determine whether it is cancerous or benign.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="5">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Blood Tests</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Certain blood tests may be used to check for tumor markers or other indicators of cancer. However, these tests are not always conclusive.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="6">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Endoscopy</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>If a tumor is suspected in the rectum or colon, an endoscopy may be performed to visualize the inside of these organs and take a tissue sample for analysis.</p>

<p>The specific diagnostic tests used will depend on the location and suspected type of pelvic tumor, as well as the individual patient&#39;s medical history and symptoms. Once a diagnosis has been made, doctors can work with patients to develop a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

Treatment

<p>Treatment for a cancerous pelvic mass may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of more than one treatment. Oncologists take an individualized approach to treating female pelvic tumors. The treatment plan will account for several factors including the type and stage of cancer, the location and size of the tumor, and the patient&rsquo;s overall health. In general, the treatment options for malignant pelvic tumors may include:<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Surgery</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Surgical removal of the tumor is often the first line of treatment for many pelvic tumors, particularly those that are localized and have not spread to other parts of the body.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="2">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Radiation Therapy</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. It may be used in combination with surgery or chemotherapy.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="3">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Chemotherapy</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used alone or in combination with surgery or radiation therapy.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="4">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Hormone Therapy</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Hormone therapy is used to treat some types of pelvic tumors that are sensitive to hormones, such as breast or ovarian cancer. It may involve medications that block the production or activity of hormones in the body.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="5">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Targeted Therapy</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Targeted therapy is a newer type of treatment that targets specific proteins or genes that are involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.</p>

<p>It is important to discuss all treatment options with a healthcare provider and make an informed decision based on individual circumstances.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pelvic tumors can be benign or malignant, and their location in the pelvis can cause various complications. Some of the complications of pelvic tumors include:<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Urinary And Bowel Problems</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Tumors in the pelvis can press on the bladder or rectum, causing urinary or bowel problems. These problems may include difficulty urinating, urinary incontinence, constipation, or diarrhea.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="2">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Sexual Dysfunction</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Pelvic tumors can also affect sexual function, causing pain during intercourse or difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="3">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Nerve Damage</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>If a pelvic tumor grows large enough, it can compress the nerves in the pelvis, causing numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="4">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Blood Vessel Damage</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>In rare cases, a pelvic tumor can grow into a blood vessel and cause bleeding or blockage of the vessel, leading to swelling or pain in the legs.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="5">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Spread To Other Organs</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Malignant pelvic tumors can spread to nearby organs, such as the bladder, rectum, or ovaries, leading to additional complications and the need for more aggressive treatment.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>The exact causes of pelvic tumors are not fully understood, but certain risk factors may increase a person&#39;s likelihood of developing a pelvic tumor. Some of the common risk factors for pelvic tumors include:<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Age</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>The risk of developing pelvic tumors increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 50.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="2">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Gender</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Certain types of pelvic tumors, such as ovarian tumors, are more common in females.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="3">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Family History</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>A family history of pelvic tumors or certain genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome or BRCA gene mutations, may increase the risk of developing pelvic tumors.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="4">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Hormonal Factors</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Some pelvic tumors, such as uterine and ovarian tumors, are linked to hormonal factors. For example, estrogen exposure is a known risk factor for uterine tumors<sup><a href="#accordion">[3]</a></sup>.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="5">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Previous Cancer Treatments</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>People who have undergone radiation therapy or chemotherapy for previous cancers may have an increased risk of developing pelvic tumors.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="6">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Lifestyle Factors</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Smoking, obesity, and a diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables may also increase the risk of developing certain types of pelvic tumors.</p>

<p>It&#39;s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop a pelvic tumor. However, it is important to be aware of these risk factors and to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol>
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Regular Check-Ups And Screenings</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help detect any abnormalities or potential signs of pelvic tumors early on. Screening tests such as Pap tests, mammograms, and colonoscopies may also be recommended depending on a person&#39;s age and other risk factors.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="2">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Maintaining A&nbsp;Healthy Weight</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Being overweight or obese may increase the risk of developing certain types of pelvic tumors. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce this risk.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="3">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Quitting Smoking</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including bladder and cervical cancer. Quitting smoking can help reduce this risk.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="4">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Reducing Exposure To Environmental Toxins</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those found in pesticides and industrial solvents, may increase the risk of developing pelvic tumors. Taking steps to reduce exposure to these toxins can help reduce this risk.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ol start="5">
	<li>
	<h5><strong>Hormone Therapy</strong></h5>
	</li>
</ol>

<p>For women, hormone therapy may be used to help manage symptoms of menopause. However, long-term use of certain types of hormone therapy may increase the risk of developing uterine or ovarian tumors. It&#39;s important to discuss the risks and benefits of hormone therapy with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

Key Points

<ul>
	<li>Pelvic tumors are abnormal growths that can develop in various organs and tissues in the pelvic region.</li>
	<li>Some common types of pelvic tumors include ovarian, uterine, cervical, bladder, and rectal tumors.</li>
	<li>Pelvic tumors can arise due to many reasons, such as ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, and even cancers.</li>
	<li>While most pelvic masses are benign, they are more likely to be cancerous in postmenopausal women.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Risk factors for pelvic tumors include age, genetics, hormonal factors, obesity, smoking, and exposure to certain environmental toxins.</li>
	<li>Symptoms of pelvic tumors may vary depending on the location and size of the tumor but can include abdominal pain, bloating, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and abnormal vaginal bleeding.</li>
	<li>Diagnosis of pelvic tumors typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and biopsy procedures.</li>
	<li>Treatment options for malignant pelvic tumors may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy, depending on the type and stage of the tumor.</li>
</ul>

[1] Merritt MA, Green AC, Nagle CM, Webb PM, Cancer) ACS (Ovarian, Group AOCS. Talcum powder, chronic pelvic inflammation, and NSAIDs in relation to risk of epithelial ovarian cancer. Int J cancer. 2008;122(1):170–6.