[Electron microscopic investigation on cutaneous leiomyosarcoma (author's transl)].

A 61-year old woman developed a tumourous nodule in her left leg. Fifteen years ago a similar tumour had been removed in the same localization. Histological examination performed on biopsy material showed bundles of predominantly fusiform tumour cells with nuclear pleomorphism and many mitotic figures. Electron microscopic examination confirmed the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma by demonstration of the ultrastructural characteristics of smooth muscle cells. Cellular differentiation showed various degree ranging from smooth muscle cell type to dedifferentiated edematous tumour cells with scanty myofilaments. An important finding was the demonstration of multiple accumulated centrioles.