Background Angioleiomyoma, a vascular leiomyoma, is a rare, benign smooth-muscle tumor that
originates in the tunica media of vessels. It occurs anywhere in the body, most frequently
in the lower extremities.
Methods We reviewed the medical records of 16 patients who were treated for angioleiomyoma
between 2000 and 2012. The clinical features of angioleiomyoma and the correlation
between symptoms and pathological subtypes were investigated.
Results There were 9 males and 6 females. Ages of the patients ranged from 21 to 61. Pain
was the primary symptom in 44% of the patients. Tumors were smaller than 2.0 cm in
all dimensions and were located in the face in 4 patients, whereas 5 lesions occurred
in the upper extremities and the remaining 7 in the lower extremities. Three histologic
subtypes were identified: solid, venous, and cavernous. The subtypes did not correlate
with the clinical symptoms.
Conclusions Angioleiomyoma appears to be a rare tumor that occurs in the face and the extremities.
The tumor usually occurs in middle age. A differential diagnosis of this tumor is
difficult, but the tumor should be considered in the diagnosis of painful subcutaneous
masses. Ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging can be helpful in the diagnosis
of angioleiomyoma. These tumors can be successfully treated with simple excision,
with a low recurrence rate.
Keywords
Angioleiomyoma - Leiomyoma - Leiomyomatosis
