(lī‵ō-mī-ō'mă , 'mă-tā )

Plural: leiomyomas

Plural: leiomyomata

[leio- + myoma]

A benign tumor consisting principally of smooth muscle. Many leiomyomas are asymptomatic.

epithelioid l.A leiomyoma, usually of the stomach.

uterine l.A leiomyoma of the uterus. It is the most common tumor of the female reproductive tract.

Leiomyomas may sometimes cause abdominal or pelvic heaviness, abnormal uterine bleeding, frequent urination, dysparunia, or pain.

Leiomyomas are classified according to their location. Subserous leiomyomas are found in the peritoneal covering of the uterus. They may be large or small, firm protuberances from the outer surface of the uterus or be attached by pedicles. Intraligamentous leiomyomas are found in the broad ligament. They may have uterine attachment. Intramural leiomyomas are found in the muscle wall of the uterus. If large, they can give the uterus a nodular, irregular shape. Submucosal leiomyomas are found next to the endometrium. Their most common symptoms are excessive, often abnormal bleeding, abdominal cramping, or pain. Cervical leiomyomas may cause stress incontinence, polyuria, dysparunia, or increased vaginal discharge.