Lateral recurrences

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Lateral recurrences are rare neoplasms that arise in the pelvic side wall in women. Tumours located in this area may arise after a gynaecological malignancy such as cancer of the uterine cervix.

These gynaecological tumours can affect females of any age, although this pathology usually develops in adult individuals.

Causes of lateral recurrences

Although the causes of lateral recurrences are not yet clear, some risk factors that can influence their development have been identified:

• Compromised immune systems 
• Age
• A diet poor in fruit and vegetables, but rich in calories and fats
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Early menarche
• Late menopause
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Exposure to radiation, for instance, in previous radiation therapies

Symptoms of lateral recurrences

Although lateral recurrences may be asymptomatic in some cases, the following symptoms may be generally present:

• Vaginal bleeding between periods
• Vaginal bleeding after intercourse
• Vaginal bleeding after menopause
• Pelvic pain
• Leg oedema

Diagnosis of lateral recurrences

In case of suspected lateral recurrence, a visit to the specialist for an in-depth gynaecological exam is required to outline the patient's medical history.

Subsequently, further tests can be carried out using imaging techniques:

• Computed tomography (CT) scans of the thorax and abdomen
• A positron emission tomography (PET) scan
• A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the pelvis

Additionally, in certain cases, the specialist may prescribe additional tests such as:

• Colposcopy
• Hysteroscopy
• Transvaginal ultrasound
• Biopsy

Treatment of lateral recurrences

Treatment of lateral recurrences can vary based on a number of factors such as the nature, location and size of the tumour.

Given the high clinical complexity and the significant impact that treatment can have on the patient's quality of life, a multidisciplinary team is required to define the correct way to treat lateral recurrences. 

Radiation therapy with carbon ions has shown some efficacy to treat recurrences of gynaecological malignancies located in the pelvis, even in cases of radio-resistant neoplasms.