OBJECTIVES: I. Estimate the antitumor activity of paclitaxel in patients with metastatic or persistent leiomyosarcoma of the uterus who have failed treatment protocols of higher priority. II. Determine the nature and degree of toxic effects of paclitaxel in this group of patients.
OUTLINE: Patients receive a continuous infusion of paclitaxel once every 3 weeks over 3 hours. Patients in complete remission, partial remission, or stable disease undergo at least 3 courses of paclitaxel. Paclitaxel continues until disease progression or adverse effects prohibit further treatment. All patients are followed until death.
PROJECTED ACCRUAL: This study anticipates an annual accrual of approximately 25 patients over 2.5 years.