Lumbosacral radiculopathy secondary to metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma: a case report

Abstract

Study design: A retrospective case report.

Objectives: To increase awareness of the fact that very serious and potentially devastating conditions can be associated with lumbosacral radiculopathy. To reinforce the need to have a definitive diagnosis before performing epidural injections in patients with radicular pain who are not responsive to conservative treatment.

Summary of background data: To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of uterine leiomyosarcoma presenting with a lumbosacral radiculopathy.

Methods: The authors describe the treatment and the radiologic, surgical, and pathologic findings in this patient.

Results: Proper diagnostic work-up led to a diagnosis of metastatic uterine leiomyosarcoma, which was managed with decompressive laminectomy, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

Conclusions: This is the first reported case of a uterine leiomyosarcoma presenting with radicular pain. When a patient has not responded to conservative care, a definitive etiology for radiculopathy needs to be established before epidural steroid injection.