A Case of Cotyledonoid-Dissecting Leiomyoma - The Utility of Laparoscopic Biopsy and Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Analogs

Abstract

Cotyledonoid-dissecting leiomyoma, a very unusual form of uterine leiomyoma, often leads to misdiagnosis as a malignant tumor. Here, we describe a case of a 45-year-old nulliparous woman who underwent a laparoscopic biopsy of a large pelvic mass consisting of multiple flaps. Histologically, the mass was composed of smooth muscle fascicle nodules separated by hydropic connective tissue, and exhibited extensive stromal hyalinization. The tumor was diagnosed as a cotyledonoid-dissecting leiomyoma based on the laparoscopic, pathological, and image findings. Prior to performing radical laparotomy, two courses of leuprorelin were administered in anticipation of tumor reduction and hypoperfusion, and the tumor size reduced remarkably. We demonstrated the utility of laparoscopic biopsy, considering its minimal invasiveness and diagnostic accuracy. Furthermore, the preoperative use of Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogs to reduce surgical stress may be useful for treating cotyledonoid-dissecting leiomyomas.