Leiomyosarcoma, uterus, gross
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These uncommon malignancies are thought to arise de novo from smooth muscle. Their origin from a pre-existing leiomyoma is controversial. Leiomyosarcomas of the uterus are equally common before and after menopause, with a peak incidence at 40-60 years of age. These tumors have a tendency to recur after removal, with more than half of the cases eventually metastasizing via bloodstream to different organs, such as bones, lung and brain. Dissemination through the abdominal cavity is also encountered.