Smooth Muscle Tumor of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP): A Systematic Review of the Literature in the Last 20 Years

Carmen Elena Bucuri ^1,2, Razvan Ciortea ¹, Andrei Mihai Malutan ¹

⁰2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

Current Oncology (Toronto, Ont.) +

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September 27, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Smooth Muscle Tumors of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP) are rare uterine tumors with ambiguous features. This review analyzes 32 studies, highlighting diagnostic challenges, varied presentations, and treatment strategies for STUMPs.

Area Of Science

Gynecologic Oncology
Pathology
Reproductive Medicine

Background

Smooth Muscle Tumors of Uncertain Malignant Potential (STUMP) are rare uterine neoplasms.
STUMPs present diagnostic challenges due to overlapping histological features with benign and malignant smooth muscle tumors.
These tumors primarily affect perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.

Purpose Of The Study

To systematically review the clinical, pathological, immunohistochemical, and treatment characteristics of STUMPs.
To elucidate diagnostic challenges and identify prognostic factors for STUMPs.
To provide insights for improved patient management and future research.

Main Methods

Systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines.
Searches conducted in PubMed and Scopus databases.
Analysis of 32 studies published over the past 20 years.

Main Results

Clinical presentations range from abnormal uterine bleeding to incidental findings.
Histological features are ambiguous, with mild atypia and low mitotic activity.
Elevated p16 expression noted in a subset, suggesting potential prognostic significance.
Surgical management is primary; recurrence rates are approximately 12%.

Conclusions

STUMP diagnosis and management remain complex, necessitating refined diagnostic criteria.
Individualized treatment strategies and long-term surveillance are crucial.
Further research into STUMP behavior and biomarkers is warranted to improve patient outcomes.

Keywords:

mitotic index recurrence tumor markers uterine smooth muscle tumor