Uterine Fibroids Flashcards
(30 cards)
What are uterine fibroids?
Benign tumours of the uterus arising from smooth muscle.
What is another name for uterine fibroids?
Leiomyomas or myomas.
From which cells do fibroids arise?
Smooth muscle cells of the uterine myometrium.
What percentage of white women have fibroids by age 50?
~70%.
What percentage of Black women have fibroids by age 50?
~80%.
What is the role of oestrogen and progesterone in fibroid growth?
They promote fibroid growth.
What happens to fibroids after menopause?
They often shrink due to decreased hormone levels.
Name three common classifications of fibroids.
Subserosal, intramural, submucosal.
What is a subserosal fibroid?
Grows outward from the uterus, may become pedunculated.
What is an intramural fibroid?
Grows within the muscle wall of the uterus.
What is a submucosal fibroid?
Grows into the uterine cavity and may cause bleeding.
What are the common symptoms of uterine fibroids?
Menorrhagia, pelvic pressure, pain, infertility.
What is the most common presenting symptom?
Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia).
What are “bulk symptoms” in fibroid cases?
Urinary frequency, constipation, bloating from mass effect.
What type of pain can red degeneration cause?
Acute abdominal pain.
What reproductive complications can fibroids cause?
Infertility, miscarriage, preterm labour.
What is the typical presentation of a fibroid on physical examination?
Irregular, firm, non-tender uterine mass.
What investigation is first-line for suspected fibroids?
Pelvic ultrasound.
What is the role of MRI in fibroid management?
For mapping large or multiple fibroids and surgical planning.
What is the role of hysteroscopy?
Visualises the uterine cavity; useful for submucosal fibroids.
Name two medical treatments for fibroid-related bleeding.
NSAIDs, tranexamic acid, hormonal therapy (e.g., COCP).
How do GnRH agonists help manage fibroids?
Suppress ovarian hormones to reduce fibroid size.
What is the purpose of using GnRH analogues preoperatively?
To reduce bleeding and fibroid volume before surgery.
What is uterine artery embolisation (UAE)?
A non-surgical procedure to block blood supply to fibroids.
