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Uterine leiomyosarcomas: a review of the diagnostic and therapeutic pitfalls
Author(s) -
Harry Vanessa N,
Narayansingh Gordon V,
Parkin David E
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
the obstetrician and gynaecologist
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1744-4667
pISSN - 1467-2561
DOI - 10.1576/toag.9.2.088.27309
Subject(s) - uterine sarcoma , medicine , uterine fibroids , adjuvant therapy , gynecology , stage (stratigraphy) , invasive surgery , leiomyoma , leiomyosarcoma , general surgery , surgery , chemotherapy , paleontology , biology
Key content• Uterine leiomyosarcomas are the most common uterine sarcoma and they are notoriously aggressive in nature. • Preoperative diagnosis is difficult and they are usually detected as an incidental finding at surgery. • Tumour stage is the most important prognostic factor. • Misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosis can occur following the use of conservative techniques for managing uterine fibroids. • The primary treatment is surgical, while the role of adjuvant therapy is still to be clearly defined.Learning objectives• To appreciate the diagnostic challenges faced with uterine leiomyosarcomas, especially in view of the similarities with uterine fibroids. • To learn about the current views on surgical treatment and adjuvant therapy. • To have an understanding of the novel therapies currently under investigation.Ethical issues• Can we offer women conservative non‐surgical treatment for fibroids if we cannot confidently exclude leiomyosarcomas?Please cite this article as: Harry VN, Narayansingh GV, Parkin DE. Uterine leiomyosarcomas: a review of the diagnostic and therapeutic pitfalls. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2007;9:88–94.