Uterine leiomyomas are benign (not cancerous). They arise from the proliferation of smooth muscle and connective tissue in the uterus. Its common name is fibroids. Since its growth is promoted by estrogen and progestin receptors, which are fibroids, leiomyomas usually grow during pregnancy and cessation of growth with menopause. The estrogen replacement therapy (used after menopause) and oral contraceptives may also cause some regrowth of fibroid tumors. Although the causes of leiomyomas are still unknown, yet most often occur as follows:; in the body and fundus of the uterus, only 3% in the cervix, in groups instead of one and one more black women (3:1) than white (9:1) and half of women over age 40 but can develop in women at any ageLeiomyomas are distinct, round, firm, differ in size and classified according to their location, 1. Intramural leiomyomas located within the muscular wall of uterus2. Submucosal leiomyomas located inside the uterus lining3. Subserous leiomyomas located on the outer surface of the uterusSome leiomyomas may even be separated from the uterus1. Intraligamentous Leiomyomas located within the broad ligaments2. Pedunculated leiomyoma attached by a stalk that is subject to torsion or infection 3. Parasitic leiomyomas obtain their blood supply from other abdominal organs fibroid symptoms are related to the number of tumors and their size and location. Most women with uterine fibroids have no symptoms, but some may experience symptoms as follows:; cramping abdominal pain usually felt during menstruation; excessive bleeding (menorrhagia) or Between periods, frequent urination interfere with normal urine retention and release; ureteral obstruction obstruct the ureters, with the risk of infection, stones and kidney disease, constipation pelvic pressure and heaviness; Infertility Fibroids can interfere with fertility, depending on their locationThe preferred imaging modality for evaluation of uterine fibroids is Ultrasound (U.S.). CT is limited by their similar attenuation characteristics of the fibroids. MRI and hysteroscopy (examination of the uterine cavity with a special instrument of observation) can represent the number, size and location of the tumors.The the treatment of choice during the years of parenting is a myomectomy (removal of fibroids), and that future pregnancies are possible. Small Asymptomatic leiomyomas are usually not treated, but should be observed at intervals of six months. Leiomyomas do not usually require surgery unless they cause considerable pressure on adjacent organs (bladder, ureter or bowel), severe bleeding leading to anemia, or they're growing fast. However, under certain circumstances, leiomyomas can be repeated, and hysterectomy can be performed and cure www.brooksidepress.org emedicine.medscape.com problem.www.nmihi.com br br
