MRI findings in-between leiomyoma and leiomyosarcoma: a Rad-Path correlation of degenerated leiomyomas and variants

Br J Radiol. 2021 Sep 1;94(1125):20210283. doi: 10.1259/bjr.20210283. Epub 2021 Jul 21.

Abstract

Leiomyomas are the most common benign tumors of the uterus. On the opposite side, leiomyosarcomas are rare malignant uterine tumors that account for a significant proportion of uterine cancer deaths. Especially when large and degenerated, leiomyomas and leiomyoma variants can have overlapping imaging characteristics with those of leiomyosarcomas. Although not always possible, it is paramount to be able to differentiate between leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas on imaging, as the therapeutic management can differ. This pictorial review aims to familiarize radiologists with imaging features of leiomyomas and various types of leiomyoma degeneration and variants, together with their pathology correlates.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Leiomyoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Leiomyoma / pathology*
  • Leiomyosarcoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Leiomyosarcoma / pathology*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Radiology Information Systems
  • Uterine Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Uterine Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Uterus / diagnostic imaging
  • Uterus / pathology