VAGINAL LEIOMYOMA: REPORT OF A RARE TUMOR

Abstract

Leiomyomas are benign tumors originating in smooth muscle. They are most commonly located in the uterus, but can rarely appear in the vagina. There are just over 300 described cases of vaginal leiomyoma.^1,2 Diagnosis can be difficult, as these masses can be confused with vaginal cysts or cervical fibroids, leading to inadequate treatments.^3,4 Female patient, 39 years old, sought medical attention after noticing a “ball” in the vagina. She has been using a copper intrauterine device for 5 years, with no significant gynecological-obstetric history. Cytopathology was carried out 3 years ago, and this one showed no changes. At the consultation, the physical examination revealed a vulva with loss of volume and during palpation, a mobile cyst on the anterior wall measuring approximately 3 centimeters, located in the middle third of the vagina. The patient was treated with surgical excision. The pathological examination revealed a nodular portion of gray, elastic tissue measuring 3.0 x 2.5 x 2.5 centimeters. Under microscopy, spindle cell proliferation without cellular atypia and without atypical mitoses. Immunohistochemistry made the definitive diagnosis of leiomyoma. The case report emphasizes the importance of an accurate diagnosis of vaginal leiomyomas, a rare condition that can be confused with other pathologies. Surgical excision of the tumor allowed the correct diagnosis, highlighting the need for careful evaluation of vaginal masses to ensure adequate treatment.