Pathophysiology and Clinical Management of Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas)
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that frequently appear during childbearing years. Also called leiomyomas or myomas, these tumors develop from the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus (myometrium). A single cell divides repeatedly, eventually creating a firm, rubbery mass distinct from neighboring tissue.
Growth Patterns and Classification
Fibroids are categorized by their location:
Intramural: Grow within the muscular uterine wall.
Submucosal: Bulge into the uterine cavity; these are most associated with heavy menstrual bleeding.
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