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Uterine leiomyomas revisited with review of literature

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Abstract

Uterine leiomyomas, more commonly known as fibroids, are the most common neoplasms of the uterus. These tumors have a profound effect on health care and cost worldwide. Depending on the race, uterine leiomyomas can be seen in 70–80% of all women. Although majority of the women with uterine leiomyomas remain asymptomatic, approximately 30% can present with symptoms. Diagnosing typical leiomyomas on imaging is straightforward. However, when large, located extrauterine and especially with degeneration, the diagnosis can be challenging on imaging. In this article, apart from reviewing the demographics and management of patients with leiomyomas, we describe in detail the imaging appearance of various atypical leiomyomas, uncommon locations outside the uterus and their important differential diagnosis that can have a profound effect on patient management.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Radiology, Rajagiri Hospital, Chunangamvely, Aluva, Kochi, Kerala, India

    Rishi Philip Mathew & Vinayak Jayaram

  2. Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster Medcity, Cheranelloor, Kochi, Kerala, India

    Swati Francis & Shameema Anvarsadath

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  1. Rishi Philip Mathew
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RPM designed and wrote the manuscript; SF wrote the manuscript; VJ collected images and literature; SA supervised the project.

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Correspondence to Rishi Philip Mathew.

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Mathew, R.P., Francis, S., Jayaram, V. et al. Uterine leiomyomas revisited with review of literature. Abdom Radiol 46, 4908–4926 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00261-021-03126-4

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