Retroperitoneal Tumor

Retroperitoneal tumors arise mainly from fat, loose connective tissue, muscle, fascia, blood vessels, nerves and lymphatic tissue of the retroperitoneal space, and do not include tumors of organs originally situated in the retroperitoneum (kidney, pancreas, adrenal gland, ureter, etc.). Retroperitoneal tumors are divided into benign and malignant. Malignant tumors account for about 60-80%; common ones are liposarcoma, fibrosarcoma, neurofibrosarcoma and malignant lymphoma. Among benign tumors, fibroma and teratoma are common. Generally speaking, cystic retroperitoneal tumors are usually benign, while solid ones are mostly malignant.

Common Symptoms

Loss of psoas shadow; ascites; abdominal distension; abdominal-muscle rigidity; abdominal pain; fatigue; low-grade fever

Causes and Pathogenesis

Cause unclear. Retroperitoneal tumors are divided into benign and malignant. Malignant tumors account for about 60-80%; common ones are liposarcoma, fibrosarcoma, neurofibrosarcoma and malignant lymphoma. Among benign tumors, fibroma and teratoma are common. Generally speaking, cystic retroperitoneal tumors are usually benign, while solid ones are mostly malignant.

Treatment

Surgery, drug therapy, supportive therapy, radiotherapy

Preventive Measures

Professional guidance: Retroperitoneal tumors arise deep in the retroperitoneal space, so early stage is usually asymptomatic; as the tumor grows, lumbar/abdominal dull pain or organ displacement/compression symptoms appear. Therefore, dull distending pain in the lumbicoabdominal area should raise suspicion and allow early detection/treatment. Most retroperitoneal tumors are malignant with rapid progression and poor prognosis; do not seek unregulated treatment and delay. Current treatment is mainly surgery plus chemotherapy/radiotherapy, beyond the scope of ordinary clinics; patients with suspected disease should seek care at well-equipped hospitals for best results.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Medical Oncology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.