Fibroid tumor

Fibroid Tumor

A Fibroid Tumor, also known as a leiomyoma or simply a fibroid, is a benign smooth muscle tumor that very rarely becomes cancerous (<1%). Women have a lifetime risk of developing fibroids of 70% to 80%. While fibroids are not associated with an increased risk of leiomyosarcoma, they may be a cause of infertility.

Symptoms

Most fibroids do not cause symptoms, but those that do can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent urination. They may also cause infertility. However, the presence of fibroids does not necessarily mean they are the cause of these symptoms.

Causes

The exact cause of fibroids is unknown, but they are thought to be related to the levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Other factors may include genetics, as fibroids tend to run in families, and ethnicity, as fibroids are more common in African-American women.

Diagnosis

Fibroids are often discovered during a routine pelvic examination. Further testing may include an ultrasound, MRI, or hysteroscopy. In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment options for fibroids include watchful waiting, medication, non-surgical procedures, and surgery. The choice of treatment depends on the size and location of the fibroids, the severity of symptoms, and the woman's desire to have children in the future.

See Also

• Uterine fibroids
• Leiomyoma
• Hysterectomy
• Myomectomy

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