[Uterine leiomyosarcomas: a surprising pathology. Review of the literature. Six case reports].

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the clinical features and laboratory tests which define a population with a high risk of leiomyosarcoma.

METHOD: A retrospective analysis of 660 hysterectomies performed between 1989 and 1994 was conducted. There were 414 cases of leiomyoma and 6 leiomyosarcomas (1.4%).

RESULTS

The indication for hysterectomy was complication of fibromyomatous uterus in all cases. Diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma was never suspected before surgery and the pathology examination. Complimentary radiotherapy was given in 2 patients among the 6 with leiomyosarcoma. Mean survival was 35 months. There were no cases of recurrence or metastasis. None of the laboratory tests performed provided clues to diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Physicians should be aware of possible misdiagnosis of a leiomyosarcoma when proposing medical treatment of uterine fibroma.