[A parasitic myoma: unexpected finding after laparoscopic hysterectomy]

Abstract

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 48-year-old woman with a history of hysterectomy presented with a swelling in her lower abdomen. Ultrasound investigation showed a solid tumour with a benign appearance. Differential diagnosis included an ovarian tumour or leiomyoma. Laparoscopic investigation revealed a preperitoneal tumour which was removed by laparotomy. Histologic examination showed a benign leiomyoma. CONCLUSION: A patient with a history of hysterectomy is less likely to present with a myoma, however, in this case the diagnosis was correct. Due to the increasing use of a morcellator in laparoscopic hysterectomy in recent decades, we will be confronted with the diagnosis 'parasitic myoma' more frequently. Patients will have to be informed of the risk of this complication.