Genetic and Epigenetic Features in Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumors: An Update

Laura Gonzalez dos Anjos, Isabela Werneck da Cunha, Edmund Chada Baracat and Katia Candido Carvalho

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Sao Paulo, BrazilDepartment of Pathology, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil

^*Correspondance to: Kátia Cândido Carvalho 

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Abstract:

Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumors (USMTs) can be either benign or malignant. The Uterine Leiomyoma (ULM) also called uterine fibroid is the most common benign USMT, but at least 4 other types of tumors are part of this classification: Mitotically Active Leiomyoma (MALM), Cellular Leiomyoma (CLM), Atypical Leiomyoma (ALM), and Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP). These tumors show high heterogeneity in several aspects such as size, location and symptoms and represent the current major cause of hysterectomy. In contrast, Uterine Leiomyosarcoma (ULMSs) occurs with lower frequency but higher recurrence, metastasis, and mortality rates. Although present the same cell pattern of differentiation, the origin and causes of these tumors are unknown. The diagnosis of these neoplasms is difficult by the symptoms overlapping, sharing of morphological and molecular characteristics, being possible to classify them only after the surgical procedure. In addition, despite of the MRI recommendation as better technique for LMS and LM differentiation, none image method still present sufficient sensitivity for their preoperative diagnosis. Some researchers believe that a degenerated ULM can turn into a ULMS; others claim that ULMSs can only arise de novo. Several studies have focused on the molecular mechanisms of these tumors; however, no specific marker or signaling has been defined for clinical and therapeutic applications. To help better understand their molecular biology, in this review, we assemble literature data from 2005 to 2019 that focuses on findings related to ULM and ULMS genetics and epigenetics.

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Cite the Article:

dos Anjos LG, da Cunha IW, Baracat EC, Carvalho KC. Genetic and Epigenetic Features in Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumors: An Update. Clin Oncol. 2019;4:1637 .