Leiomiomii

Leiomiomii is not a standard English medical term. In English, the plural of leiomyoma is usually leiomyomas or leiomyomata. The form leiomiomii may appear in some Latinized or non-English texts as a rarely used plural. The underlying concept it would refer to is a leiomyoma: a benign tumor derived from smooth muscle cells. Leiomyomas can arise in various organs, but are most commonly found in the uterus, where they are commonly called fibroids.

Pathology and incidence

Leiomyomas are typically benign monoclonal proliferations of smooth muscle cells. In the uterus, they often grow under hormonal influence and are more common in women of reproductive age. Genetic factors, including mutations in MED12 and other chromosomal alterations, have been associated with their development. Leiomyomas can also occur in other sites, such as the gastrointestinal tract, bladder, and skin (piloleiomyomas), though these are less common.

Clinical presentation

Uterine leiomyomas may be asymptomatic or cause symptoms such as heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure or pain, and fertility problems. Non-uterine leiomyomas may cause localized pain, mass effect, or functional impairment depending on their location. Skin piloleiomyomas typically present as painful nodules.

Diagnosis

Initial assessment usually involves imaging, with ultrasound as the standard first-line modality. MRI can be used to map size, number, and location, especially for planning treatment. Definitive diagnosis is confirmed histologically after biopsy or surgical removal.

Treatment and prognosis

Management ranges from watchful waiting to targeted therapy. Medical options may reduce symptoms, while surgical approaches (eg, myomectomy or hysterectomy) are common for uterine fibroids causing significant symptoms. Other options include minimally invasive procedures and, in select cases, uterine artery embolization or focused ultrasound. Leiomyomas are benign in most cases, with a low risk of malignant transformation and potential for symptom recurrence after treatment.