Uterine fibroid

Uterine fibroids, medically referred to as uterine leiomyomas or simply fibroids, are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or on the uterus. Composed of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue, they emerge from the myometrium, the muscular wall of the uterus.

Histopathology of uterine leiomyoma (original)

Intravascular Leiomyomatosis of the Uterus

Myoma

Myom

Epidemiology

The occurrence of uterine fibroids is quite common, particularly in women of reproductive age. Some estimates suggest that up to 70-80% of women will develop fibroids by the time they reach the age of 50.

Symptoms and Complications

While most women with uterine fibroids experience no symptoms, others may encounter a range of discomforts. These include heavy or prolonged menstruation, pelvic pain, frequent urination, discomfort during sexual intercourse, and lower back pain. When fibroids are substantial in size, they may apply pressure to the bladder, leading to increased urinary frequency.

Although rare, fibroids may occasionally complicate pregnancy or contribute to fertility problems. The location, size, and number of fibroids can impact pregnancy outcomes and fertility.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of uterine fibroids typically begins with a pelvic examination, which may be followed by imaging studies like ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or hysteroscopy. These allow for the assessment of the size, location, and number of fibroids.

Treatment

The treatment strategy for uterine fibroids is individualized, contingent on the patient's symptoms, fibroid size and location, patient age, and individual fertility considerations. Options include watchful waiting for asymptomatic fibroids, medication to manage symptoms, or surgical intervention for symptomatic fibroids.

Surgical options include myomectomy (removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus), hysterectomy (removal of the entire uterus), and uterine artery embolization, a minimally invasive procedure that blocks the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink.

See Also

• Menstruation
• Hysterectomy
• Myomectomy

References

Uterine fibroid Resources
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