Details
Uterine leiomyoma.
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are one of the most common benign tumours, and can be associated with a wide range of unusual findings. For example, a range of treatment-related artifacts can be observed after treatment by uterine artery embolization. In this technique, foreign material such as particles of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is injected into the uterine arteries to occlude blood supply to the fibroids.
PVA appears as a non-refractile, pale, grayish-blue lattice within vessels on H&E sections. Following uterine artery embolization, leiomyomas and adjacent tissue can demonstrate foreign body giant cell reaction (present in this case), PCA PVA emboli, and necrosis. In this case, the reactive formation of bone within calcified matrix, or dystrophic ossification, can also be seen. The calcification is thought to result from aggregated particles of PVA in the peripheral arteries supplying the leiomyomas.
See Related Content for reference:
1) Colgan, TJ, et al. Am J Surg Pathol. 2003 Feb;27(2):167-77.