Thane: A 72-year-old homemaker from Mumbai thought she was dealing with a common digestive problem. For months, she experienced abdominal bloating, a feeling of heaviness, and swelling in both her legs. Like many people, she though all these symptoms were caused due to routine health issues and sought treatment. But when the discomfort persisted, she visited KIMS Hospitals, Thane, where investigations revealed a far more serious diagnosis.
On clinical examination, doctors could feel a large mass filling much of her abdomen. A CT scan performed the same day confirmed the presence of a massive tumour measuring nearly 30 cm. The growth silently expanded over time and occupied most of the abdominal cavity. Tumour had completely engulfed the right kidney and was also densely attached to a portion of the large intestine.
Dr. Saneya Pandrowala, Consultant GI & HPB Oncosurgery, KIMS Hospitals, Thane, who led the treatment, explained that the tumour’s size and location made surgery the only effective option.
“The tumour had grown to such an extent that it occupied almost the entire abdominal cavity. The right kidney was completely encased within the tumour, while the colon was densely stuck to it. Separating these structures without leaving tumour tissue behind was not possible,” said Dr. Pandrowala.
The patient was planned for a complex compartment resection, a procedure aimed at removing the tumour entirely in one piece along with the organs directly involved by the disease. During surgery, Dr Pandrowala and her team successfully removed the tumour along with the affected kidney and the involved section of the colon to achieve complete clearance.
The final specimen measured approximately 30 x 29 x 12 cm. After analysis it was identified as a low-grade retroperitoneal liposarcoma, a rare cancer that develops in the deep tissues of the abdomen. These tumours often grow slowly and silently, producing vague symptoms such as bloating, abdominal fullness, heaviness, or changes in appetite. Because there is significant space within the abdomen, they can reach an enormous size before being detected.
For this type of cancer, complete surgical removal remains the cornerstone of treatment. When the tumour can be removed entirely, surgery offers the best chance of long-term disease control.
The patient, who had diabetes but was otherwise active and regularly cared for her children and grandchildren, took time to recover after the major operation. She has since regained her strength and returned to her daily routine. She now remains under regular follow-up with periodic scans.
Dr. Pandrowala believes the case highlights an important message for the public. “constant bloating, abdominal heaviness, feeling that something is not right, they should not be ignored, especially when symptoms are repetitive. While these complaints are often linked to common digestive issues, theere is a change that it can be the first sign of a serious underlying condition. Early evaluation can make a significant difference.”