Preoperative Differentiation of Uterine Leiomyomas and Leiomyosarcomas: Current Possibilities and Future Directions

Simple Summary Uterine sarcomas are the second most common unexpected malignancy diagnosed after surgery. It is worrisome, as its preoperative diagnosing can impact the choice of the treatment method, including surgery. Therefore, nowadays, many researchers are trying to find innovative methods to differentiate benign and malignant lesions of the uterus preoperatively. The review of the current literature showed that the use of more than one parameter in specific diagnostic scales is one of the most effective methods. Moreover, machine learning models and artificial intelligence (AI) are hope-giving directions, which may help in preoperative ULMS and ULM distinguishment. In order to collect a large amount of ULMS patients, multicenter databases seem necessary. The distinguishing of uterine leiomyosarcomas (ULMS) and uterine leiomyomas (ULM) before the operation and histopathological evaluation of tissue is one of the current challenges for clinicians and researchers. Recently, a few new and innovative methods have been developed. However, researchers are trying to create different scales analyzing available parameters and to combine them with imaging methods with the aim of ULMs and ULM preoperative differentiation ULMs and ULM. Moreover, it has been observed that the technology, meaning machine learning models and artificial intelligence (AI), is entering the world of medicine, including gynecology. Therefore, we can predict the diagnosis not only through symptoms, laboratory tests or imaging methods, but also, we can base it on AI. What is the best option to differentiate ULM and ULMS preoperatively? In our review, we focus on the possible methods to diagnose uterine lesions effectively, including clinical signs and symptoms, laboratory tests, imaging methods, molecular aspects, available scales, and AI. In addition, considering costs and availability, we list the most promising methods to be implemented and investigated on a larger scale.

Automated summary

Uterine sarcomas are the second most common unexpected malignancy diagnosed after surgery. Using multiple parameters in specific diagnostic scales and applying machine learning models and artificial intelligence can help differentiate uterine leiomyosarcomas (ULMS) and uterine leiomyomas (ULM) preoperatively. Establishing multicenter databases is necessary for collecting a large number of ULMS patients.