Myoma

Definition of myoma:
A benign growth of smooth muscle in the wall of the uterus.

Description of myoma:
A Myoma is a solid tumor made of fibrous tissue, hence it is often called a 'fibroid' tumor. Myomas vary in size and number, are most often slow-growing and usually cause no symptoms. Myomas that do not produce symptoms do not need to be treated. Approximately 25% of myomas will cause symptoms and need medical treatment.

Myomas may grow as a single nodule or in clusters and may range in size from 1 mm to more than 20 cm in diameter. Myomas are the most frequently diagnosed tumor of the female pelvis and the most common reason for a woman to have a hysterectomy. Although they are often referred to as tumors, they are not cancerous.

The cause of myomas has not actually been determined, but most myomas develop in women during their reproductive years. Myomas do not develop before the body begins producing estrogen. Myomas tend to grow very quickly during pregnancy when the body is producing extra estrogen. Once menopause has begun, myomas generally stop growing and can begin to shrink due to the loss of estrogen.

Until recently, hysterectomy was the preferred option for treating symptomatic fibroids. Now, however, there are a number of uterine fibroid treatments.

Common Misspellings: mayoma

Alternate Names: uterine fibroids, fibroids, fibromyoma, leiomyoma, leiomyomata

For more information on Myomas:

http://health.allrefer.com/health/uterine-fibroids-info.html
Overview and general information about myomas including pictures and images

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/uterine-fibroids/DS00078
Outline of myoma symptoms, causes and treatment options

http://www.sightlinehealth.com/fibroids.htm
Answers basic questions about myomas and outlines treatment options

http://www.nichd.nih.gov/publications/pubs/fibroids/index.htm
National Institute of Health gives information about myomas (uterine fibroids)

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