Uterine smooth muscle tumors of unknown malignant potential: A challenging question

Smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential or atypical leiomyomas: A long-term evaluation of surgical outcomes and clinicopathological features

OBJECTIVE

The Primary Objective of this study was to analyse reproductive outcomes in patients with STUMP (Smooth Muscle Tumour of Uncertain Potential) or ALM (Atypical Leiomyoma) who underwent fertility-preserving surgeries. Secondary Objectives were to analyse long-term prognosis for these patients and to study the basic demographic and pathological characteristics of patients with STUMP or ALM.

STUDY DESIGN

This retrospective study was conducted at Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences. Cases of STUMP and ALM were retrieved from the hospital medical database between June 2014 and December 2022. Demographic parameters, clinical presentations, pathological features and clinical outcomes were analysed. Categorical variables were expressed in numbers and percentages. Normal distribution data were presented as mean while non-normal distribution was expressed as median and range.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients were included in the study with a diagnosis of STUMP or ALM in postoperative histology. Seven patients (18.4%) were nulliparous. Myomectomy was performed in 9 (23.6%), while hysterectomy was done in 29 patients (76.3%). Fertility-preserving surgeries were performed on six patients (15.7%). Of these six patients, 4(66.6%) conceived spontaneously and had successful pregnancies. Recurrences were found in 3 patients (7.8%) out of which one had undergone fertility-sparing surgery. All the patients with recurrences had previous history of myomectomies. Morcellation was reportedly done in 2 of these three patients.

CONCLUSION

Good reproductive outcomes have been demonstrated in patients diagnosed with STUMP or ALM and desiring fertility. However, these patients should be kept under follow-up care as they are prone for recurrences. Patients who have undergone morcellation mayhave an increased chance of recurrence.

Ultrasound Appearance of Intravascular Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP): A Case Report

A 43-year-old patient with a history of uterine fibromatosis was referred to our hospital for menometrorrhagia and pelvic pain. At the pelvic ultrasound, a highly-vascularized myometrial lesion in volumetric increase was described. An elongated, solid, hypoechoic, painless, and highly vascularized left parauterine mass was identified. On histological examination, a uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) with intravascular invasion of the left uterine vein was diagnosed. The adnexa and peritoneum were free of disease. On a retrospective evaluation of the ultrasound images, we noticed that the intravascular lesion showed sonographic features comparable to the original mass. Moreover, the Color Doppler (CD) analysis revealed an interrupted blood flow within the left uterine vein. In this case, the ultrasound proved to be an accurate diagnostic tool. When inhomogeneous uterine masses are suspected, and a parauterine/paraadnexal mass surrounded by irregular vessels are identified, the sonographer should take into account a risk of intravascular invasion. The patency of uterine and ovarian vessels should be accurately evaluated, to guide a tailored patient surgical approach.

Comprehensive Review of Uterine Leiomyosarcoma: Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Targeted Therapy

Uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS) is the most common subtype of uterine sarcomas. They have a poor prognosis with high rates of recurrence and metastasis. The five-year survival for uLMS patients is between 25 and 76%, with survival rates approaching 10-15% for patients with metastatic disease at the initial diagnosis. Accumulating evidence suggests that several biological pathways are involved in uLMS pathogenesis. Notably, drugs that block abnormal functions of these pathways remarkably improve survival in uLMS patients. However, due to chemotherapy resistance, there remains a need for novel drugs that can target these pathways effectively. In this review article, we provide an overview of the recent progress in ascertaining the biological functions and regulatory mechanisms in uLMS from the perspective of aberrant biological pathways, including DNA repair, immune checkpoint blockade, protein kinase and intracellular signaling pathways, and the hedgehog pathway. We review the emerging role of epigenetics and epitranscriptome in the pathogenesis of uLMS. In addition, we discuss serum markers, artificial intelligence (AI) combined with machine learning, shear wave elastography, current management and medical treatment options, and ongoing clinical trials for patients with uLMS. Comprehensive, integrated, and deeper insights into the pathobiology and underlying molecular mechanisms of uLMS will help develop novel strategies to treat patients with this aggressive tumor.

Development and Validation of a Nomogram to Predict the Risk of Special Uterine Leiomyoma Pathological Types or Leiomyosarcoma in Postmenopausal Women: A Retrospective Study

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors of postmenopausal special uterine leiomyoma pathological types or leiomyosarcoma and to develop a nomogram for clinical risk assessment, ultimately to reduce unnecessary surgical interventions and corresponding economic expenses.

Methods

A total of 707 patients with complete information were enrolled from 1 August 2012 to 1 August 2022. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyse the association between variables and special uterine leiomyoma pathological types or leiomyosarcoma in postmenopausal patients. A nomogram for special uterine leiomyoma pathological types or leiomyosarcoma in postmenopausal patients was developed and validated by bootstrap resampling. The calibration curve was used to assess the accuracy of the model and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and decision curve analysis (DCA) were compared with the clinical experience model.

Results

The increasing trend after menopause, the diameter of the largest uterine fibroid, serum carcinoembryonic antigen 125 concentration, Serum neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, and Serum phosphorus ion concentration were independent risk factors for special uterine leiomyoma pathological types or leiomyosarcoma in postmenopausal patients. We developed a user-friendly nomogram which showed good diagnostic performance (AUC=0.724). The model was consistent and the calibration curve of our cohort was close to the ideal diagonal line. DCA indicated that the model has potential value for clinical application. Furthermore, our model was superior to the previous clinical experience model in terms of ROC and DCA.

Conclusion

We have developed a prediction nomogram for special uterine leiomyoma pathological types or leiomyosarcoma in postmenopausal patients. This nomogram could serve as an important warning signal and evaluation method for special uterine leiomyoma pathological types or leiomyosarcoma in postmenopausal patients.

Raf kinase inhibitor protein expression in smooth muscle tumours of the uterus: a diagnostic marker for leiomyosarcoma?

RESEARCH QUESTION

What is the expression pattern of Raf kinase inhibitory protein (RKIP) in different subtypes of leiomyoma (usual type, cellular, apoplectic or haemorrhagic leiomyoma, leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei and lipoleiomyoma) and leiomyosarcoma specimens, and what is its biological role in leiomyosarcoma cells?

DESIGN

Leiomyoma and leiomyosarcoma specimens underwent immunohistochemistry staining. Leiomyosarcoma SK-LMS-1 cell line was RKIP knocked down and RKIP overexpressed, and cell viability, wound healing migration and clonogenicity assays were carried out.

RESULTS

A higher immunohistochemical expression of RKIP was observed in bizarre leiomyomas, than in usual-type leiomyomas. Decreased expression was also found in cellular leiomyoma, with generally absent staining in leiomyosarcomas. Upon RKIP expression manipulation in SK-LMS-1 cell line, no major differences were observed in cell viability and migration capacity over time. RKIP knockout, however, resulted in a significant increase in the cell's ability to form colonies (P = 0.011).

CONCLUSION

RKIP distinct expression pattern among leiomyoma histotype and leiomyosarcoma, and its effect on leiomyosarcoma cells on colony formation, encourages further studies of RKIP in uterine smooth muscle disorders.

Uterine smooth muscle tumors: a multicenter, retrospective, comparative study of clinical and ultrasound features

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a wide range of clinical and ultrasound characteristics of different uterine smooth muscle tumors to identify features capable of discriminating between these types.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, multicenter study that included 285 patients diagnosed with uterine smooth muscle tumors (50 leiomyosarcomas, 35 smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential, and 200 leiomyomas). The patients were divided into three groups based on the histological type of their tumors, and the groups were compared according to the variables collected.

RESULTS

Leiomyosarcomas were more common in older and post-menopausal women. Compared with leiomyomas, smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential and leiomyosarcomas had similar ultrasound features such as absence of normal myometrium, multilocular appearance, hyper-echogenicity in case of uniform echogenicity, absence of posterior shadows, echogenic areas, and hyperechoic rim. Leiomyosarcomas were larger, had more cystic areas, and were associated with a higher prevalence of pelvic free fluid. Smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential were characterized by a higher frequency of International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) type 6-7, the absence of internal shadows, and, in the case of cystic area, the presence of a regular internal wall. Tumor outline varied among the three histological types. A color score of 1 was typical of leiomyoma, a color score 2 was mainly observed in leiomyomas and smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential, a color score 3 did not differ among the tumors, while a color of score 4 was related to leiomyosarcomas. When combining color scores 3 and 4, leiomyosarcomas and smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential showed a high percentage of both circumferential and intra-lesional vascularization. A cooked appearance was not statistically different among the tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our findings, specific ultrasonographic features as well as age and menopausal status are associated with different uterine smooth muscle tumor types. Integration of these data can help the pre-operative assessment of these lesions for proper management.

Comprehensive next-generation sequencing reveals low-grade fibromyxoid sarcoma of the vulva missed by morphological diagnosis: a case report

Low-grade fibromyxoid sarcoma (LGFMS) is a rare soft tissue tumor composed of bland spindled cells in a variably fibrous to myxoid stroma. Its occurrence in the vulva region is rare, and thus, it may not be always taken into account in the differential diagnosis. Here, we describe a 34-year-old woman presented with a right vulvar mass and underwent complete surgical excision. The final pathologic diagnosis revealed LGFMS of the vulva based on the morphological, immunophenotypic, and molecular genetic features. The patient has not experienced a local or metastatic recurrence after 9-month follow-up. Despite being rare, LGFMS of the vulva should be considered when making a diagnosis of vulvar lesions. We also report that the genetic testing by next-generation sequencing (NGS) represents a very useful tool for the differential diagnosis of LGFMS from its mimics. Moreover, we have reviewed the literature on LGFMS of the vulva and summarized the characteristics of the patients, providing assistance for the diagnosis of such patients. Most vulvovaginal LGFMS can be fully removed through surgery. However, ongoing monitoring over the long term is essential as local and/or distant spread can occur decades after the initial diagnosis.

FTIR Microspectroscopy as a new probe to study human uterine lesions: Characterization of tumor cell lines from uterine smooth muscle cells and evaluation of EPA and DHA in vitro treatments

During their life, women are likely to develop uterine diseases, which often compromise their fertile and perimenopausal age. Besides benign lesions like leiomyomas, several malignant neoplasms can occur, such as the uterine leiomyosarcoma, which represents the most frequent malignancy among the rarest uterine cancers. It presents several variants similar to both benign and malignant neoplasms, and sometimes it shares symptoms with the benign counterpart. In this scenario, for a correct diagnosis and a successful prognosis, it is mandatory to detect new reliable markers which strengthen histopathological outcomes and let define a more appropriate and less harmful therapy. Based on this concerning evidence, in the present study, Fourier Transform Infrared Microspectroscopy has been exploited at a cellular level on uterine leiomyoma and leiomyosarcoma cell lines to (1) identify specific spectral biomarkers able to distinguish between benign and malignant lesions, and (2) evaluate the efficacy of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids (respectively EPA and DHA), already successfully tested. Results evidenced reliable differences in the spectral signature of benign and malignant cells, mainly in terms of lipids and nucleic acids composition. Moreover, even if EPA and DHA seemed to exert different effects on the tested cell lines, no cytotoxic and/or anti-apoptotic actions were observed after omega-3 based treatments.

Intravenous leiomyoma of the uterus extending to the pulmonary artery: A case report

BACKGROUND

Uterine intravenous leiomyomatosis is defined as leiomyoma tissue invading the vein outside the leiomyoma. Reports of extension to the right pulmonary artery are relatively rare.

CASE SUMMARY

We describe a 31-year-old woman with a benign leiomyoma that extended into the right ventricular lumen, causing mechanical obstruction and corresponding clinical symptoms. Tumors located in the pulmonary artery can cause pulmonary artery obstruction. After diagnosis, surgical treatment should be performed as soon as possible.

CONCLUSION

In this case, the uterine leiomyoma extended to the right pulmonary system, which is clinically rare.

Smooth Muscle Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP): A Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Update

Background and Objectives: The uterine smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) are tumors with pathological characteristics similar to leiomyosarcoma, but that do not satisfy histological criteria for leiomyoma. These are problematic lesions with intermediate morphologic features; thus, diagnosis and treatment are difficult. This narrative review aims to review data in the literature about STUMPs, particularly focusing on management and therapeutic options and strategies for women who desire to preserve fertility. Material and Methods: authors searched for "uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential" in PubMed and Scopus databases, from 2000 to March 2023. Pertinent articles were obtained in full-text format and screened for additional references. Only articles in English language were included. Studies including full case description of patients with histopathological diagnosis of STUMP in accordance with Stanford criteria were included. Results: The median age was 43 years old. Symptoms are similar to those of leiomyomas, with a mean diameter of 8.0 cm. Total hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is the standard care for women if fertility desire is satisfied. Myomectomy alone can be considered for young patients. Although these tumors have not a high malignant potential, several studies described recurrence and metastases. Conclusions: STUMPs are complex uterine smooth muscle tumors, with a rare but reasoned clinical-diagnostic management. Considering the high clinical and histological complexity of these tumors, high level of expertise is mandatory.

Uterine sarcomas: A critical review of the literature

This review aims to provide a comprehensive description of surgical approaches for the management of uterine sarcomas. Uterine sarcomas are rare uterine neoplasms. Frequently, diagnosis is made after hysterectomy or myomectomy scheduled for presumed benign leiomyomas. The gold standard for surgical treatment of uterine sarcomas is hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. It is possible to adopt a fertility-sparing approach for those patients who wish to maintain their fertility. The role of pelvic lymphadenectomy is controversial; in fact, removal of lymph nodes is only recommended in the case of radiological suspicion of nodal involvement. Use of a morcellator is associated with increased risk of total recurrence, intra-abdominal recurrence and death. Advanced disease management should be customized based on the patient's performance status given the uncertain role of adjuvant chemotherapy. Treatment of advanced or recurrent disease remains a subject of debate, but surgery is the best approach in terms of morbidity and mortality. There are few options for management of these uterine tumours, and further studies are needed to clarify the diagnostic and therapeutic pathways of patients with a first diagnosis of uterine sarcoma and patients with relapse of uterine sarcoma. No specific evidence supports the adoption of adjuvant therapy in uterine-confined disease, and molecular/genomic profiling may be useful to identify patients at risk of recurrence.

Current management of benign retroperitoneal tumors

Benign retroperitoneal tumors (BRT) represent a rare group of heterogeneous diseases. The literature lacks high-quality evidence about the optimal management of BRT, and most of the information available takes the form of case reports or case series. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of current management strategies for adult patients with BRT. A literature search using PubMed indexed articles was conducted and BRT were classified into five different biological subgroups: 1) lipomatous tumors, 2) smooth muscle tumors, 3) peripheral nerve sheath tumors, 4) myofibroblastic tumors, and 5) others. Tumors that are primarily pelvic in origin were excluded. Despite the significant heterogeneity of the disease, several generic considerations have emerged and can be applied to the management of BRT. Specifically, the risk of misdiagnosing a BRT with another pathology such as retroperitoneal sarcoma is notable. When encountered, suspected BRT should therefore be referred to a specialized sarcoma center. Multidisciplinary tumor boards, present at these centers, have a pivotal role in managing BRT. The decision of whether to offer surgery, nonsurgical treatment or a "watch-and-wait" approach should be made after multidisciplinary discussion, depending on tumor histology. Moving forward, collaborative research efforts dedicated to BRT remain crucial in gathering evidence and knowledge to further optimize patient care.

Molecular-Based Immunohistochemical Algorithm for Uterine Leiomyosarcoma Diagnosis

The morphologic assessment of uterine leiomyosarcoma (LMS) may be challenging, and diagnostic immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis is currently lacking. We evaluated the genomic landscape of 167 uterine LMS by targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) to identify common genomic alterations. IHC analyses corresponding to these genomic landmarks were applied to a test cohort of 16 uterine LMS, 6 smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP), and 6 leiomyomas with NGS data and a validation cohort of 8 uterine LMS, 12 STUMP, 21 leiomyomas and leiomyoma variants, 7 low-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas, and 2 diagnostically challenging uterine smooth muscle tumors. IHC results were individually interpreted by 3 pathologists blinded to NGS data. Overall, 94% of LMS showed ≥1 genomic alteration involving TP53, RB1, ATRX, PTEN, CDKN2A, or MDM2, with 80% showing alterations in ≥2 of these genes. In the test cohort, an initial panel of p53, Rb, PTEN, and ATRX was applied, followed by a panel of DAXX, MTAP, and MDM2 in cases without abnormalities. Abnormal p53, Rb, PTEN, and ATRX IHC expression was seen in 75%, 88%, 44%, and 38% of LMS, respectively, in the test cohort. Two or more abnormal IHC results among these markers were seen in 81% of LMS. STUMPs demonstrated only 1 IHC abnormality involving these markers. No IHC abnormalities were seen in leiomyomas. In the validation cohort, abnormal p53, Rb, and PTEN IHC results were seen in LMS, whereas rare STUMP or leiomyomas with bizarre nuclei showed IHC abnormalities involving only 1 of the markers. Abnormalities in ≥2 markers were present in both diagnostically challenging smooth muscle tumors, confirming LMS. Concordance was excellent among pathologists in the interpretation of IHC (κ = 0.97) and between IHC and NGS results (κ = 0.941). Uterine LMS exhibit genomic landmark alterations for which IHC surrogates exist, and a diagnostic algorithm involving molecular-based IHC may aid in the evaluation of unusual uterine smooth muscle tumors.

Hemoperitoneum due to spontaneous bleeding from a smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential: A rare case report

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMPs) are uncommon tumors representing an extremely rare cause of hemoperitoneum.

CASE PRESENTATION

We report a case of a 48-year-old Caucasian, premenopausal woman that presented in the emergency department with acute abdominal pain. There was no remarkable past medical and surgical history except from a known uterine leiomyoma. The ultrasound and the computed tomography imaging showed an intraperitoneal fluid collection and a heterogenous uterine mass. The patient underwent emergent exploratory laparotomy; a subserosal uterine tumor was identified with an actively bleeding vessel on its surface. The uterine lesion was completely excised and the histopathology set the diagnosis of a STUMP. After consultation on the significance of this finding with the patient, an abdominal total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy were scheduled and performed and the subsequent histopathology detected no malignancy.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

This case demonstrates that a STUMP may be a rare cause of acute intraperitoneal bleeding. Careful evaluation of clinical history, imaging findings and, if needed, surgical exploration are important for the diagnosis, while appropriate follow-up is also of major importance for the management of these rare tumors.

CONCLUSION

We presented an extremely rare case of hemoperitoneum due to spontaneous bleeding from a STUMP. From an oncological perspective, this case poses a diagnostic, management and follow-up challenge.

Diagnostic and prognostic value of Bcl-2 in uterine leiomyosarcoma

BACKGROUND

Uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS) may show loss of expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) protein. It has been suggested that Bcl-2 loss may both be a diagnostic marker and an unfavorable prognostic marker in uLMS.

OBJECTIVE

To define the diagnostic and prognostic value of Bcl-2 loss in uLMS through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched from their inception to May 2020 for all studies assessing the diagnostic and prognostic value of Bcl-2 loss of immunohistochemical expression in uLMS. Data were extracted to calculate odds ratio (OR) for the association of Bcl-2 with uLMS vs leiomyoma variants and smooth-muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP), and hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival; a p value < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Eight studies with 388 patients were included. Loss of Bcl-2 expression in uLMS was not significantly associated with a diagnosis of uLMS vs leiomyoma variants and STUMP (OR = 2.981; p = 0.48). Bcl-2 loss was significantly associated with shorter overall survival in uLMS (HR = 3.722; p = 0.006). High statistical heterogeneity was observed in both analyses.

CONCLUSION

Loss of Bcl-2 expression appears as a significant prognostic but not diagnostic marker in uLMS. The high heterogeneity observed highlights the need for further research and larger studies.

An Extremely Rare Case of Disseminated Peritoneal Leiomyomatosis with a Pelvic Leiomyosarcoma and Omental Metastasis after Laparoscopic Morcellation: Systematic Review of the Literature

Minimally invasive treatment of uterine fibroids usually requires a power morcellation, which could be associated with several complications. A rare sequela is disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis. Indeed, recurrence or metastasis in these cases could be attributed to iatrogenic or under-evaluation of primary tumors, although a subset of cases is a sporadic sample of biological progression. We present an extremely rare case of a patient who underwent laparoscopic morcellation and after 12 years developed a pelvic leiomyosarcoma with two omental metastases, disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis with a parasite leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei and a parasite cellular leiomyoma simultaneously. The diagnosis was predicted preoperatively by an expert sonographer who recognized the ultrasound characteristics of uterine sarcoma and the localization of some of the masses, so the patient was referred to the gynaecological oncologists who could appropriately treat her. We present here a case report and a systematic review that could be a useful tool for further discussion and future clinical practice guidelines.

Clinical and Histopathological Predictors of Recurrence in Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP): A Multicenter Retrospective Cohort Study of Tertiary Centers

BACKGROUND

The term uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) indicates a rare, equivocal entity between benign leiomyomas and leiomyosarcomas. In the present study, we evaluated a comprehensive range of clinical, surgical, and pathological features in a large multicenter series of patients with STUMP to identify risk factors for recurrence.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study performed by collecting consecutive cases diagnosed between January 2000 and December 2020 in five tertiary centers. Associations between STUMP recurrence and clinicopathological characteristics as well as surgical treatment modality were investigated.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven patients affected by STUMP were considered. Of them, 18 cases (20.7%) recurred: 11 as leiomyosarcoma (LMS) and 7 as STUMP. The mean time to recurrence was 79 months. We found that fragmentation/morcellation, epithelioid features, high mitotic count, Ki-67 value > 20%, progesterone receptor (PR) < 83%, and p16 diffuse expression were associated with higher risk of recurrence and shorter recurrence-free survival (RFS). Furthermore, morcellation/fragmentation and mitotic count remained independent risk factors for recurrence and shorter RFS after multivariate analysis, while the presence of epithelioid features was an independent risk factor for recurrence only.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that morcellation is associated with risk of recurrence and shorter RFS, thus it should be avoided if a STUMP is suspected preoperatively. Epithelioid features, high proliferation activity, low PR expression, and diffuse p16 expression are also unfavorable prognostic factors, so patients presenting these features should be closely followed up.

Recurrence of Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Background: This study aimed to systematically review the existing literature on uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) to provide information about characteristics and outcomes of patients and the risk factors for recurrence over a period of 60 years (1960−2021). Methods: According to PRISMA guidelines, we searched for "uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential" in PubMed (all fields) and Scopus (Title/Abstract/Keywords) databases (accessed on 1 January 2022). Relevant articles were obtained in full-text format and screened for additional references. The only filter used was the English language. Studies including full case description of patients with histopathological diagnosis of STUMP in accordance with Stanford criteria were included. Results: Thirty-four studies, including 189 cases, were included. The median age was 43 years, and in 21.5% of cases there was a recurrence of the disease. Bivariate analysis showed a significant association between use of morcellation without bag and risk of recurrence (p = 0.001). Unprotected morcellation during demolitive or conservative surgery was independently associated with a higher risk of disease recurrence with a relative risk of 2.94 (p < 0.001). A significant progressive decrease in the recurrence rate was observed over time (r = −0.671, p = 0.008). The percentage of patients who underwent surgery followed by in-bag protected morcellation significantly increased after the publication of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration alert about the risk linked to this procedure (p = 0.01). Conclusions: Unprotected morcellation of the lesion is associated with the relapse of the disease. However, this clinical condition showed a drastic decrease over time. This could likely be due to the increased awareness by surgeons of the importance of customizing surgical treatment.

[Practical diagnostic aspects of uterine leiomyosarcoma in the context of the 2020 WHO classification]

The 2020 WHO Classification defines the spindle cell, epithelioid, and myxoid variants as subtypes of uterine leiomyosarcomas (LMS). Presence of cellular atypia (size variation of polymorphic nuclei > 2-3:1), tumor cell necroses, and mitotic count (usually ≥ 10 MF/10 HPF) are still the key features for diagnostic separation from uterine leiomyomas. Preanalytic variables, staining quality, as well as intralesional geographic distribution may affect the mitotic count. Smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) still exist as a not yet well-characterized diagnostic entity. Immunohistochemical stains against p16, p53, Ki-67, and WT‑1 may aid differential diagnosis in selected cases. Diagnostic molecular pathology is not yet relevant for diagnosis.

Risk of Recurrence in Uterine Leiomyoma with Bizarre Nuclei: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Objective Leiomyoma with bizarre nuclei (LBN) is a variant of uterine leiomyoma, which has replaced the previous category of “atypical leiomyoma” and must be distinguished from smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP). However, previously published series of “atypical leiomyoma” might have included both LBN and STUMP, due to the lack of strict diagnostic criteria. Based on such hypothesis, we aimed to define the risk of recurrence in LBN.

Study Design A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed by searching 4 electronic databases for all studies assessing the outcome of patients with “atypical leiomyoma” or LBN. The pooled absolute risk of recurrence was calculated. The included studies were subdivided into two subgroups based on the criteria used: “LBN + STUMP” or “LBN-only”.

Results Twelve studies with 433 patients were included. The pooled risk of recurrence was 5.5% overall. The funnel plot showed two cluster of studies which superimposed to the two subgroups. In the LBN + STUMP cluster/subgroup, the pooled risk of recurrence was 7.7%. In the LBN-only cluster/subgroup, the pooled risk of recurrence was 1.9%. Statistical heterogeneity was null in all analyses.

Conclusion Our results show a risk of recurrence of 1.9% for LBN; higher recurrence rates in older studies are likely due to the inclusion of STUMPs.

Ki67 as a prognostic marker in uterine leiomyosarcoma: A quantitative systematic review

Ki67 labeling index (LI) has been proposed as a prognostic factor in uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS), although the evidence in this field is still unclear. We aimed to assess the prognostic value of ki67 LI in uLMS. A systematic review was performed by searching electronic databases from their inception to August 2020 for all studies assessing the prognostic value of ki67 LI in uLMS. Ki67 LI was assessed to the nearest 10% to define the most prognostically accurate threshold. Cox regression survival analysis with calculation of hazard ratio (HR) of death was performed; a p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Ten studies were included in the qualitative review, out of which 6 were suitable for quantitative review. The absolute risk of death was 0.29 for a ki67 LI < 10%, remained stable at 0.49 in the 10%-39% LI range and increased to 0.65 for a LI ≥ 40%. On univariate analysis, both 10% and 40% thresholds were significantly associated with the hazard of death, with HRs of 3.349 (p = 0.007) and 3.172 (p = 0.001), respectively. On multivariate analysis, only the 10% threshold was significantly associated with the hazard of death (HR = 2.712; p = 0.028). In conclusion, a Ki67 LI ≥ 10% is a significant prognostic factor in uLMS.

Uterine leiomyomas revisited with review of literature

Uterine leiomyomas, more commonly known as fibroids, are the most common neoplasms of the uterus. These tumors have a profound effect on health care and cost worldwide. Depending on the race, uterine leiomyomas can be seen in 70-80% of all women. Although majority of the women with uterine leiomyomas remain asymptomatic, approximately 30% can present with symptoms. Diagnosing typical leiomyomas on imaging is straightforward. However, when large, located extrauterine and especially with degeneration, the diagnosis can be challenging on imaging. In this article, apart from reviewing the demographics and management of patients with leiomyomas, we describe in detail the imaging appearance of various atypical leiomyomas, uncommon locations outside the uterus and their important differential diagnosis that can have a profound effect on patient management.

p53, p16 and ki67 as immunohistochemical prognostic markers in uterine smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP)

The risk stratification in gynecologic smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) is a crucial issue, but at present there are no validated prognostic markers. We aimed to assess p53, p16 and ki67 as immunohistochemical prognostic markers in STUMP through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Electronic databases were searched from their inception to July 2020. All studies assessing p53, p16 and/or ki67 immunohistochemistry in gynecologic STUMP series were included. Immunohistochemical patterns were categorized as "abnormal" vs "wild-type" for p53, "diffuse" vs "focal/negative" for p16, ≥ 10% vs 10% for ki67. The prognostic value for recurrence was assessed through Cox regression analysis; a p-value 0.05 was considered significant. Markers that resulted significant were assessed for prognostic accuracy with calculation of area under the curve (AUC) and post-test probability of recurrence. Seven studies with 171 patients were included. Significant association with disease-free survival was found for p53 (p 0.0001) and p16 (p 0.0001), but not for ki67 (p = 0.911). p53 showed sensitivity= 83%, specificity= 86%, AUC= 0.89, and post-test recurrence probabilities of 54% and 7% in the case of abnormal and wild-type expression, respectively. p16 showed sensitivity= 84%, specificity= 88%, AUC= 0.91 and post-test recurrence probabilities of 56% and 7% in the case of diffuse and focal/negative expression, respectively. In conclusion, p53 and p16 might be useful in the risk assessment of STUMP, despite not being suitable as stand-alone prognostic markers.

Clinical and reproductive outcomes of uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential: a single-center retrospective study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical outcomes, histopathological features, and obstetric and oncological outcomes of uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP).

METHODS

We conducted a single-center, database review of patients with STUMP between January 2001 and December 2015. We investigated the clinical, operative, histopathologic, recurrence, and fertility outcomes of the included cases.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients with STUMP were studied. Three were reclassified as sarcoma after slide review, and 16 patients were finally included in the study. The mean age was 45 years. Ki-67 expression was ≥10% in 25.0% of cases and 30% in the only recurrent case. Recurrence occurred 52 months after a diagnosis of STUMP in a 56-year-old female patient who underwent hysterectomy. Two of six patients who underwent myomectomy had fertility requirements, and both successfully delivered babies without recurrence. Recurrence was not related to mitosis, degree of atypia, or necrosis. There was also no relationship between type of surgery or surgical approach and recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with STUMP warrant a pathological review process in centers with experience. Fertility-preservation is worth attempting, but young patients must be followed-up closely. Ki-67 might be a valuable marker predicting recurrence.

ALT Positivity in Human Cancers: Prevalence and Clinical Insights

Many exciting advances in cancer-related telomere biology have been made in the past decade. Of these recent advances, great progress has also been made with respect to the Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) pathway. Along with a better understanding of the molecular mechanism of this unique telomere maintenance pathway, many studies have also evaluated ALT activity in various cancer subtypes. We first briefly review and assess a variety of commonly used ALT biomarkers. Then, we provide both an update on ALT-positive (ALT+) tumor prevalence as well as a systematic clinical assessment of the presently studied ALT+ malignancies. Additionally, we discuss the pathogenetic alterations in ALT+ cancers, for example, the mutation status of ATRX and DAXX, and their correlations with the activation of the ALT pathway. Finally, we highlight important ALT+ clinical associations within each cancer subtype and subdivisions within, as well as their prognoses. We hope this alternative perspective will allow scientists, clinicians, and drug developers to have greater insight into the ALT cancers so that together, we may develop more efficacious treatments and improved management strategies to meet the urgent needs of cancer patients.

[New data on the molecular biology of soft tissue sarcoma]

Sarcoma consists in a group of rare malignant tumours of mesenchymal origin characterized by their vast clinical, pathological and biological heterogeneity. The pathological diagnosis of sarcoma relies classically of the differentiation features of tumour cells, with dozens of different tumour subtypes described in the last international classifications. Over the last decades, the advances in the development of new techniques of molecular biology have led to a major complexification of sarcoma classification, with the identification of multiple and specific molecular alterations that have led to significant changes for patients diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic management. This review aims at giving an overview on the current knowledge of the molecular biology of soft tissue sarcoma, and emphasizes on their consequences for the daily management of patients.

An Emerging Anti-p16 Antibody-BC42 Clone as an Alternative to the Current E6H4 for Use in the Female Genital Tract Pathological Diagnosis: Our Experience and a Review on p16ink4a Functional Significance, Role in Daily-Practice Diagnosis, Prognostic Potential, and Technical Pitfalls

Background: To date, useful diagnostic applications of p16 IHC have been documented in gynecological pathology both for HPV-related and non-HPV-related lesions. In the present article, we reported our experience with the novel anti-p16 INK4a antibody (clone BC42), whose expression was tested across all different gynecologic neoplasms; we also compared it to the traditional E6H4 clone. Moreover, we discussed and explored all the diagnostic applications of p16 IHC in gynecologic pathology. Methods: Consultation cases covering a 5-year period (2016–2020) regarding gynecological neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions in which immunohistochemistry for p16, clone E6H4 was originally performed, were retrospectively retrieved from the files of our institution. Immunohistochemical staining for p16ink4a (BC42) [Biocare Medical group-Paceco USA; Bioptica Milan] and p16ink4a (E6H4) [Ventana Medical Systems-Arizona USA; Roche] was performed by using the Ventana automated immunostainer (Ventana Medical Systems, Tucson, AZ, USA). The immunostaining pattern was defined as negative, focal/patchy, or diffuse. Results: A total of 196 cases, represented by 36 high-grade SIL/CIN3 of the uterine cervix, 30 cervical adenocarcinomas, 22 cervical squamous cell carcinoma, 70 endometrial carcinomas, 25 high grade serous ovarian carcinomas, 6 uterine adenomatoid tumors, and 10 uterine leiomyosarcomas were included in this study. Results showed concordant staining quality of both clones on all tested neoplastic tissues. Conclusions: The novel anti-p16 antibody (BC42 clone) appeared as an alternative to the current E6H4 for use in gynecological neoplasms, offering similar levels of positivity and equally reliable staining results.

Stanford parameters stratify the risk of recurrence in gynecologic smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential

Smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) is an ill-defined category of neoplasms, which represent a diagnostic challenge. We aimed to assess whether the Stanford parameters, that is, high mitotic index (≥10/10HPF), significant atypia (moderate-to-severe), and coagulative tumor cell necrosis (CTCN), even when focal or ambiguous, may be used to stratify the risk of recurrence in gynecological smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP). Electronic databases were searched from their inception to October 2019. All studies assessing the Stanford parameters in gynecological STUMP series were included. STUMPs were subdivided according to the presence of the three Stanford parameters: high mitotic index, significant atypia, and CTCN. A Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed for recurrence-free survival; hazard ratio (HR) was calculated in each category. Fourteen studies with 219 STUMPs were included. In 15.5% of cases, none of the three Stanford parameters were present, with a recurrence risk of 5.9%; 2.7% of cases showed high mitotic index alone, with a recurrence risk of 0% (HR = not calculable); 43.8% of cases showed significant atypia alone, with a recurrence risk of 18.7% (HR = 3.3; p = 0.012); 26.5% of cases showed CTCN alone, with a recurrence risk of 17.2% (HR = 3.1; p = 0.029); and 11.4% of cases showed at least two Stanford parameters, with a recurrence risk of 32% (HR = 7.5; p = 0.003). Stanford parameters may stratify the risk of recurrence of STUMP. Significant atypia and CTCN, but not high mitotic index, may be stand-alone risk factors for recurrence in STUMP. The presence of at least two Stanford parameters, even if equivocal (e.g., uncertain or focal CTCN, focal significant atypia, mitotic index around 10/10HPF), might still be enough to support a diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma. Further studies are necessary in this field.

Genomic and Epigenomic Profile of Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumors of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMPs) Revealed Similarities and Differences with Leiomyomas and Leiomyosarcomas

Uterine smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMPs) represent a heterogeneous group of tumors that cannot be histologically diagnosed as unequivocally benign or malignant. For this reason, many authors are working to obtain a better definition of diagnostic and prognostic criteria. In this work, we analyzed the genomic and epigenomic profile of uterine smooth muscle tumors (USMTs) in order to find similarities and differences between STUMPs, leiomyosarcomas (LMSs) and leiomyomas (LMs), and possibly identify prognostic factors in this group of tumors. Array-CGH data on 23 USMTs demonstrated the presence of a more similar genomic profile between STUMPs and LMSs. Some genes, such as PRKDC and PUM2, with a potential prognostic value, were never previously associated with STUMP. The methylation data appears to be very promising, especially with regards to the divergent profile found in the sample that relapsed, characterized by an overall CGI hypomethylation. Finally, the Gene Ontology analysis highlighted some cancer genes that could play a pivotal role in the unexpected aggressive behavior that can be found in some of these tumors. These genes could prove to be prognostic markers in the future.

Prognostic significance of atypical mitotic figures in smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) of the uterus and uterine adnexa

We aimed to assess whether the presence of atypical mitotic figures (AMF) in smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) of the uterus and uterine adnexa is associated with increased risk of recurrence, and the association of AMF with the Stanford criteria, that is, significant cytologic atypia, mitotic index ≥ 10/10HPF, and coagulative tumor cell necrosis (CTCN). A systematic review was performed to identify all studies reporting the presence of AMF and oncologic outcomes in STUMP series. Fisher's exact test was used to assess the association of AMF with the three Stanford parameters. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression survival analyses with hazard ratio (HR) calculation were performed to assess the association between AMF and STUMP recurrence. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Five studies with 80 STUMPs were included, out of which 23.8% had AMF. AMF were significantly associated with the presence of significant atypia (p = 0.023), but not with the presence of a mitotic index ≥ 10/10HPF (p = 0.769), CTCN (p = 1), or more than one Stanford parameter (p = 0.171). AMF was not significantly associated with the risk of STUMP recurrence at both univariate (HR = 0.366; p = 0.188) and multivariate analyses (HR = 0.528; p = 0.463). In STUMP of the uterus and uterine adnexa, AMF are more common in the case of significant cytologic atypia, but do not seem to increase the risk of recurrence. Further studies are necessary in this regard.

Risk of incidental genital tract malignancies at the time of myomectomy and hysterectomy for benign conditions

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence of accidentally diagnosed genital malignancies in women undergoing gynecological surgeries for pathologies presumed to be benign.

METHODS

Data of all women who underwent hysterectomy for benign indications were retrieved from hospital records. A total of 628 cases of hysterectomy and 35 cases of myomectomy were included. The final histopathology was accessed through the computer records, and the total number of genital tract malignancies was included.

RESULTS

The incidence of occult uterine, ovarian, and cervical malignancies in women undergoing hysterectomy was 0.47%, 0.31%, and 0.15%, respectively. The incidence of uterine corpus malignancies in women undergoing myomectomy was 2.8%, and 3 cases of smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP) were also identified. Endometrial stromal sarcomas were the most common pathology among uterine malignancies, followed by leiomyosarcoma and endometrial adenocarcinoma.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative diagnosis of malignancies in women undergoing surgery for benign indications poses great challenges to the treating surgeon. Occult malignancies must be ruled out by thorough preoperative assessment, especially in some subsets of women. Morcellation is an inevitable technique and complement to laparoscopic surgeries, although little chances of malignancy spread is related to its use. Nevertheless, thorough preoperative investigations and always ensuring contained morcellation can minimize these chances.

Italian consensus conference on management of uterine sarcomas on behalf of S.I.G.O. (Societa' italiana di Ginecologia E Ostetricia)

BACKGROUND

Uterine sarcomas are very rare tumours with different histotypes, molecular features and clinical outcomes; therefore, it is difficult to carry out prospective clinical trials, and this often results in heterogeneous management of patients in the clinical practice.

AIM

We planned to set up an Italian consensus conference on these diseases in order to provide recommendations on treatments and quality of care in our country.

RESULTS

Early-stage uterine sarcomas are managed by hysterectomy + bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy according to menopausal status and histology; lymphadenectomy is not indicated in patients without bulky nodes, and morcellation must be avoided. The postoperative management is represented by observation, even though chemotherapy can be considered in some high-risk patients. In early-stage low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma and adenosarcomas without sarcomatous overgrowth, hormonal adjuvant treatment can be offered based on hormone receptor expression. In selected cases, external beam radiotherapy ± brachytherapy can be considered to increase local control only. Patients with advanced disease involving the abdomen can be offered primary chemotherapy (or hormonal therapy in the case of low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma and adenosarcoma without sarcomatous overgrowth), even if potentially resectable in the absence of residual disease in order to test the chemosensitivity (or hormonosensitivity); debulking surgery can be considered in patients with clinical and radiological response. Chemotherapy is based on anthracyclines ± ifosfamide or dacarbazine. Palliative radiotherapy can be offered for symptom control, and stereotactic radiotherapy can be used for up to five isolated metastatic lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of uterine sarcoma should be centralised at referral centres and managed in a multidisciplinary setting.

Ultrasound and clinical characteristics of uterine smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMPs)

OBJECTIVE(S)

Smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential are rare uterine neoplasms. Their identification through imaging is still limited due to the few available descriptions in the scientific literature. The objective of this paper is to provide clinical and ultrasound features that could support an early identification of these neoplasms.

STUDY DESIGN

We retrospectively evaluated preoperative sonographic data of patients receiving a histopathological diagnosis of smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential between 2014 and 2019 at the S. Anna Hospital (Turin, Italy), a tertiary gynecological center. Tumors were characterized on the basis of ultrasound images using terms and definitions according to the morphological uterus sonographic assessment group.

RESULTS

A total of fourteen patients with smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential (20 lesions, including 18 pure and 2 with associated leiomyosarcoma) were identified. The median age was 47 years (range 28-77) and nine (64%) patients were of reproductive age. Six patients (43%) were asymptomatic, two (14%) presented with abdominal pain, two (14 %) with menorrhagia and four (29%) with both symptoms. Two (14%) patients developed local recurrences as uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential and leiomyosarcoma, respectively. At ultrasound imaging, nine (69%) smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential were poorly or moderately vascularized and nine (82%) showed both circumferential and intra-lesional flows. Only three (15%) showed shadowing. The outlines were well-defined in seventeen cases (85%) and most (90%) showed isoechoic or mixed echogenicity with microcystic anechoic areas in fourteen (70%) of cases.

CONCLUSION(S)

Sonographic features of smooth muscle tumors of uncertain malignant potential may vary and a pathognomonic description has not been recognized. However, the identification of single or multiple lesions with specific ultrasound features should raise the suspicion of tumors of uncertain malignant potential. These features include isoechogenicity or mixed echogenicity, regular borders, presence of internal microcystic and anechoic areas, circumferential and intralesional vascularization ranging from minimal to high and absence of shadowing.

Oncologic and Reproductive Outcomes of Uterine Smooth Muscle Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential: A Single Center Retrospective Study of 67 Cases

Background: The term “uterine smooth muscle tumor of uncertain malignant potential” (STUMP) indicates a rare tumor that cannot be classified as a benign leiomyoma or malignant leiomyosarcoma. In this study, we assessed the clinical characteristics, fertility, and oncologic outcomes of patients diagnosed as STUMP in 14 years. In addition, we analyzed the risk factors for recurrence in patients with STUMP.

Methods: Medical records of STUMP patients at Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) between January 2005 and June 2019 were reviewed and analyzed. Disease-free survival, age of diagnosis, tumor size, surgical procedure, pathology and immunohistochemistry, clinical characteristics, recurrence rate, and reproductive outcomes in the follow-up period were assessed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the prognostic factors.

Results: The median age was 42 years old (range: 21–63). Total hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy was performed in 29/67 cases (43.3%), and myomectomy was performed in 38/67 cases (56.7%). Ten patients experienced recurrences, and all but two recurrences occurred within 5 years after the initial surgery. Only two of these recurrences were leiomyosarcoma. There were no deaths in the median follow-up period of 48.4 (range 2.6–170.2) months. There were no remarkable differences in location of tumor between the myomectomy and hysterectomy groups, but the patients in the myomectomy group were younger than those in the hysterectomy group. In univariate and multivariate analysis, mitosis on pathology was the only independent risk factor for recurrence. Expression of Ki-67, p53, and p16 was significantly higher in patients with recurrence. Seven of the 35 patients who attempted to conceive had successful pregnancies.

Conclusions: The prognosis of STUMP was favorable and tumors with more than 10 mitoses per 10 high power field should be monitored closely. The surgical procedure was not an independent risk factor of recurrence, and myomectomy may be an acceptable option for patients wishing to preserve fertility.

A nomogram for predicting overall survival in patients with uterine leiomyosarcoma: a SEER population-based study

Aim: To establish and validate a nomogram for the estimation of overall survival of patients with uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS). Methods: Information on patients diagnosed as uLMS was retrospectively retrieved from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. The patients were randomly assigned into the training and the validation cohorts. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine the independent prognostic factors for building a nomogram for predicting overall survival. The predictive accuracy was evaluated based on the concordance indices and the calibration plots. Results: A nomogram that combined age, marital status, tumor size, Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Result stage, surgery and radiation was established. The internal and external concordance indices were 0.748 and 0.745, respectively. The calibration plots approached 45 degrees. Conclusion: The nomogram might be an effective tool for predicting the survival of patients with uLMS.

European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) and International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) position statement on managing the menopause after gynecological cancer: focus on menopausal symptoms and osteoporosis

Worldwide, it is estimated that about 1.3 million new gynecological cancer cases are diagnosed each year. For 2018, the predicted annual totals were cervix uteri 569 847, corpus uteri 382 069, ovary 295 414, vulva 44 235, and va​gina 17 600. Treatments include hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. These can result in loss of ovarian function and, in women under the age of 45 years, early menopause. The aim of this position statement is to set out an individualized approach to the management, with or without menopausal hormone therapy, of menopausal symptoms and the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in women with gynecological cancer. Our methods comprised a literature review and consensus of expert opinion. The limited data suggest that women with low-grade, early-stage endometrial cancer may consider systemic or topical estrogens. However, menopausal hormone therapy may stimulate tumor growth in patients with more advanced disease, and non-hormonal approaches are recommended. Uterine sarcomas may be hormone dependent, and therefore estrogen and progesterone receptor testing should be undertaken to guide decisions as to whether menopausal hormone therapy or non-hormonal strategies should be used. The limited evidence available suggests that menopausal hormone therapy, either systemic or topical, does not appear to be associated with harm and does not decrease overall or disease-free survival in women with non-serous epithelial ovarian cancer and germ cell tumors. Caution is required with both systemic and topical menopausal hormone therapy in women with serous and granulosa cell tumors because of their hormone dependence, and non-hormonal options are recommended as initial therapy. There is no evidence to contraindicate the use of systemic or topical menopausal hormone therapy by women with cervical, vaginal, or vulvar cancer, as these tumors are not considered to be hormone dependent.

European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) and International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) position statement on managing the menopause after gynecological cancer: focus on menopausal symptoms and osteoporosis

INTRODUCTION

Worldwide, it is estimated that about 1.3 million new gynecological cancer cases are diagnosed each year. For 2018, the predicted annual totals were cervix uteri 569,847, corpus uteri 382,069, ovary 295,414, vulva 44,235 and va​gina 17,600. Treatments include hysterectomy with or without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. These can result in loss of ovarian function and, in women under the age of 45, early menopause.

AIM

The aim of this position statement is to set out an individualized approach to the management, with or without menopausal hormone therapy, of menopausal symptoms and the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in women with gynecological cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature review and consensus of expert opinion.

SUMMARY RECOMMENDATIONS

The limited data suggest that women with low-grade, early-stage endometrial cancer may consider systemic or topical estrogens. However, menopausal hormone therapy may stimulate tumor growth in patients with more advanced disease, and non-hormonal approaches are recommended. Uterine sarcomas may be hormone dependent, and therefore estrogen and progesterone receptor testing should be undertaken to guide decisions as to whether menopausal hormone therapy or non-hormonal strategies should be used. The limited evidence available suggests that menopausal hormone therapy, either systemic or topical, does not appear to be associated with harm and does not decrease overall or disease-free survival in women with non-serous epithelial ovarian cancer and germ cell tumors. Caution is required with both systemic and topical menopausal hormone therapy in women with serous and granulosa cell tumors because of their hormone dependence, and non-hormonal options are recommended as initial therapy. There is no evidence to contraindicate the use of systemic or topical menopausal hormone therapy by women with cervical, vaginal or vulvar cancer, as these tumors are not considered to be hormone dependent.