Uterine Morcellation and Smooth Muscle Tumors of Uncertain Malignant Potential: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge – A Case Report

Authors

YOUSSEF TOUIMRI, Taleb Imad, Toreis Mehdi, Bazine Aziz, Fetohi Mohammed

Journal Information

Journal: Medpeer Publisher

ISSN: 3066-2737

Volume: 2

Issue: 3

Date of Publication: 2025/03/05

DOI: 10.70780/medpeer.000QGMB

Abstract

Uterine morcellation is a commonly used surgical technique for extracting leiomyomas, enabling a minimally invasive approach. However, this technique carries a risk of disseminating malignant tumors or those with uncertain malignant potential, particularly leiomyosarcomas and smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMPs). We present a clinical case of a 48-year-old woman who underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy with morcellation for presumed leiomyomas, in whom an 8-cm STUMP was discovered incidentally at histopathology. This case highlights the preoperative diagnostic challenges of STUMPs and leiomyosarcomas, which cannot be reliably ruled out before surgery. The dissemination of tumor tissue during morcellation, although rare, can lead to significant complications, including local and distant recurrence. The management of patients diagnosed with a STUMP after morcellation remains controversial and requires an individualized approach. Further research is needed to improve preoperative diagnostic tools and optimize management strategies for STUMPs and leiomyosarcomas.

Keywords

Uterine morcellation, STUMP, leiomyosarcoma, preoperative diagnosis, tumor dissemination.