Updates on the cytogenetics and molecular genetics of bone and soft tissue tumors: leiomyoma

Abstract

Leiomyomas (also known as uterine fibroids or fibromas) are the most common neoplasms of the female genital tract, accounting for approximately 30% of all hysterectomies performed in the United States annually. From a study of serial sections of uteri, it has been estimated that up to 77% of women of reproductive age have leiomyomas [1]. The clinical sequelae of leiomyomas, which may depend on their location within the uterus [2], may be associated with a spectrum of symptoms, including excessive menorrhagia, severe abdominal pain, urinary incontinence, and constipation. Leiomyomas may lead to infertility, spontaneous abortions, premature labor, or dystocia [3]. Progression of leiomyoma to malignant leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is very rare (frequency of 0.1%). Leiomyomas rarely involve deep soft tissue, i.e., somatic soft tissues (primarily extremities) and retroperitoneal-abdominal areas [4]. These can be identified using stringent histologic criteria, as proposed by Billings et al [4]. Leiomyomas may occur at a number of anatomic sites [5,6] and are most common in the uterus; thus, the major part of this Update will be devoted to uterine leiomyomas and the term “leiomyoma” will refer to the uterine tumors unless indicated otherwise.