Iris Leiomyoma

Updated: Feb 18, 2019
  • Author: Manolette R Roque, MD, MBA, FPAO; Chief Editor: Hampton Roy, Sr, MD  more...
  • Print
Overview

Background

Leiomyoma of the iris is a rare, benign intraocular smooth muscle tumor. [1] The tumor often originates from the sphincter or less commonly from the dilator muscles. Studies have found that leiomyomas occur much less frequently than previously reported. Iris leiomyoma has been previously overdiagnosed. Stricter diagnostic criteria involving electron microscopy and immunohistopathology have been added as standards for reporting.

Next:

Pathophysiology

The pathogenesis of iris leiomyoma is unclear. [2] Hormones are speculated to play a role in the pathogenesis due to the tumor's similarity to uterine leiomyoma (fibroids) and its predilection to females. Structures in the iris of neuroectodermal origin believed to give rise to the tumor include the sphincter muscle and the dilator muscle. Structures in the iris of mesodermal origin believed to give rise to the tumor include mesenchymal tissue.

Previous
Next:

Epidemiology

Frequency

United States

The incidence of smooth muscle tumors has been reported as 2.3%, 4%, 9%, and 14.5%, in different published series of iris tumors.

Mortality/Morbidity

No data on mortality and morbidity from iris leiomyoma have been reported. Morbidity may be limited to the occasional presence of secondary glaucoma and decreased vision when the mass reaches the visual axis.

Race

This condition is reported only in white subjects.

Sex

Females are affected more frequently than males.

Age

Cases of leiomyoma of the iris have been seen in patients aged 10-77 years.

Previous
Next:

Prognosis

The prognosis for vision depends on the location and size of the tumor and is usually excellent.

The prognosis for life is excellent because these tumors are usually benign, slow-growing lesions with no known tendency for metastasis.

Previous
Next:

Patient Education

At least annual visits with an ophthalmologist are advised for the patient.

Previous