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Leiomyoma: genetics, assisted reproduction, pregnancy and therapeutic advances

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Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose

Uterine leiomyomas are common, benign, reproductive tract tumors affecting a majority of reproductive aged women. They are associated with gynecologic morbidity and detrimentally affect reproductive potential. The etiology of leiomyomas is poorly understood and their diagnosis prior to treatment with Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) represents a management dilemma. The purpose of this paper is to review known genetic and molecular contributions to the etiologies of leiomyomas, describe their impact on ART outcomes and reproductive potential, and review alternative therapies and future directions in management.

Methods

A critical review of the literature pertaining to genetic component of uterine leiomyomas, their impact on ART and pregnancy and leiomyoma therapeutics was performed.

Results

Uterine leiomyomas are characterized by complex molecular mechanisms. Their location and size determines their potential detriment to ART and reproductive function and novel therapeutic modalities are being developed.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of uterine leiomyomas and their potential detrimental influence on ART and reproductive function warrants continued well-designed studies to ascertain their etiology, optimal treatment and novel less morbid therapies.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institute of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA

    Gary Levy, Micah J. Hill, Stephanie Beall, Shvetha M. Zarek & James H. Segars

  2. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA

    Gary Levy & William H. Catherino

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  1. Gary Levy
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  2. Micah J. Hill
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  3. Stephanie Beall
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  4. Shvetha M. Zarek
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  5. James H. Segars
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  6. William H. Catherino
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Correspondence to Gary Levy.

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Capsule

Uterine leiomyomas are highly prevalent reproductive tract tumors. Their morbidity is dependent of their size and location and the detriment on ART and reproductive function warrants continued studies to investigate their etiology, optimal treatment and novel therapies.

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Levy, G., Hill, M.J., Beall, S. et al. Leiomyoma: genetics, assisted reproduction, pregnancy and therapeutic advances. J Assist Reprod Genet 29, 703–712 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-012-9784-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-012-9784-0

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