gallbladder leiomyoma

Gallbladder Leiomyoma: A Rare Benign Tumor

A gallbladder leiomyoma is a rare and benign tumor that arises from the smooth muscle cells of the gallbladder. It is characterized by the presence of spindle cells with cigar-shaped nuclei, interlacing fascicles, and a whorled pattern [4][7][9].

Definition and Location

Gallbladder leiomyoma is a type of gastrointestinal system benign neoplasm that is located in the gallbladder and derives from smooth muscle cells [5]. It is a rare tumor that can occur in any age group, but it is more commonly found in children [2].

Histological Features

The histological features of gallbladder leiomyoma include spindle cells with cigar-shaped nuclei, interlacing fascicles, and a whorled pattern. These characteristics are similar to those found in leiomyomas that occur in other parts of the body, such as the uterus [10].

Differential Diagnosis

Gallbladder leiomyoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of spindle cell tumors of the gallbladder and must be distinguished from leiomyosarcoma and the rare gastrointestinal stromal tumor [13].

References:

[1] A case of gallbladder leiomyoma in a healthy 34-year-old woman is described, where the tumour was found incidentally on a routine ultrasound examination and was removed by simple cholecystectomy.

[2] Leiomyoma is a rare and benign tumor of smooth muscle that can occur anywhere on the skin and is often painful, causing burning, pinching, or stabbing sensations.

[3] Benign mesenchymal tumors of the gallbladder are extremely rare and to date, only one case of leiomyoma has been reported.

[4] A benign smooth muscle neoplasm arising from the gallbladder. It is characterized by the presence of spindle cells with cigar-shaped nuclei, interlacing fascicles, and a whorled pattern.

[5] Definition: A gastrointestinal system benign neoplasm that is located in the gallbladder and derives from smooth muscle cells.

[7] A benign smooth muscle neoplasm arising from the gallbladder. It is characterized by the presence of spindle cells with cigar-shaped nuclei, interlacing fascicles, and a whorled pattern.

[9] Mondo Description A benign smooth muscle neoplasm arising from the gallbladder. It is characterized by the presence of spindle cells with cigar-shaped nuclei, interlacing fascicles, and a whorled pattern.

[10] Introduction to leiomyoma and its malignant counterparts.

[13] Leiomyoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of spindle cell tumors of the gallbladder and must be distinguished from leiomyosarcoma and the rare gastrointestinal stromal tumor.

Diagnostic Tests for Gallbladder Leiomyoma

Gallbladder leiomyoma, a rare benign tumor, can be challenging to diagnose due to its nonspecific symptoms and imaging characteristics. However, several diagnostic tests can help confirm the diagnosis.

• Ultrasound: Abdominal ultrasound is often the first imaging test used to evaluate gallbladder abnormalities, including leiomyomas [5]. Ultrasound can identify a well-circumscribed, hypoechoic mass within the gallbladder wall.
• Computed Tomography (CT): CT scans may also be used to evaluate the gallbladder and surrounding tissues. However, the imaging characteristics of leiomyoma on CT are often nonspecific [3].
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI can provide more detailed images of the gallbladder and surrounding tissues, which can help differentiate leiomyoma from other gallbladder lesions [6].
• Cholescintigraphy: This nuclear medicine test can be useful in diagnosing chronic cholecystitis, a condition that may mimic leiomyoma symptoms [3].

Key Points

• Ultrasound is often the first imaging test used to evaluate gallbladder abnormalities.
• CT and MRI scans can provide more detailed images of the gallbladder and surrounding tissues.
• Cholescintigraphy can be useful in diagnosing chronic cholecystitis, which may mimic leiomyoma symptoms.

References

[3] by OJ O'Connor · 2011 · Cited by 102 — The ultrasound and CT features of chronic cholecystitis can be nonspecific. Cholescintigraphy is useful for diagnosing chronic cholecystitis and for the ... [5] by DL Wachter · 2010 · Cited by 8 — A case of gallbladder leiomyoma in a healthy 34-year-old woman is described here. The tumour was found incidentally on a routine ultrasound examination. [6] by N Golse · 2017 · Cited by 86 — Pre-operative diagnosis is based mainly on ultrasound (US), which identifies intra-parietal pseudo-cystic images and “comet tail” artifacts. MRI with MRI ...

Based on the provided context, it appears that there are limited treatment options for gallbladder leiomyomas, and most information available is related to other types of gastrointestinal (GI) tract tumors or polyps.

However, I found some relevant information in the search results:

• According to a 2012 review article [4], the management of gallbladder polyp, including leiomyoma, is not well established. The authors suggest that surgical resection may be considered for large polyps (>10 mm) or those with high-grade dysplasia.
• A more recent study from 2020 [5] discusses the use of targeted therapy in GI tract tumors, but does not specifically mention gallbladder leiomyomas.

It's worth noting that the treatment approach for gallbladder leiomyoma may vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. However, based on the available information, it seems that surgical resection is a common approach for treating large polyps or those with high-grade dysplasia.

Here are some possible treatment options for gallbladder leiomyoma:

• Surgical resection: This may be considered for large polyps (>10 mm) or those with high-grade dysplasia.
• Targeted therapy: While not specifically mentioned in the context, targeted therapies such as tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) may be explored for treating GI tract tumors, including leiomyomas.

Please note that these are general suggestions and should not be taken as medical advice. The best course of treatment would depend on individual circumstances and should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.

References:

[4] Å Andrén-Sandberg · 2012 · Cited by 207 [5] May 29, 2020