The genetic heterogeneity of uterine leiomyomata

Uterine leiomyomata (UL) are the most common pelvic tumor in women, and are remarkably heterogeneous in terms of their clinical, pathologic, and cytogenetic attributes. Despite the major public health impact of this disease, Current treatments are largely invasive and the exact cause of UL remains unknown. Research has indicated, however, a strong genetic component to tumor development and the heritability of UL by epidemiologic, molecular, and cytogenetic Studies is being investigated actively. Although certain genes have already been identified as having a role in UL pathogenesis, future research strives to clarify the etiology of these tumors and eventually to develop less invasive treatment options.