Fibroids
Pelvic ultrasound for PCOS, fibroids and endometriomas, and hysteroscopy if the uterine cavity is suspected to be abnormal.
What our notes say
- Pelvic ultrasound for PCOS, fibroids and endometriomas, and hysteroscopy if the uterine cavity is suspected to be abnormal. (Integrated case paper: Medicine, Surgery, Gynaecology and Paediatrics (160 marks)
- Around 1% of fibroids are leiomyosarcomata which may result in malignant change (Year 6 Gynaecology CAT 1 (MBOG 6511): 13 December 2019, 4 short answers and 16 M)
- Heavy menstrual bleeding is the commonest symptom, infertility is uncommon, most fibroids (about half or more) have no symptoms, and fibroids cause heavier periods rather than amenorrhoea. (Year 6 Gynaecology CAT 1 (MBOG 6511): 13 December 2019, 4 short answers and 16 M)
- ONE of the following is the most likely complication of submucosal fibroids of the uterus: (Medical MCQs: Chemical Pathology & Haematology Exam Review)
- Uterine abnormalities — e.g. fibroids or congenital uterine anomalies. (Junior Clerkship in Reproductive Health II CAT — October 2022)
- Topics tested: congenital anomalies, abnormal menstruation, puberty, uterine fibroids, sexually transmitted infections, ovarian cysts, contraception, anatomy. (Year 4 Gynaecology CAT (MBOG 4212): 13 December 2019)
Study material on Fibroids
- Year 6 Gynaecology CAT 1 (MBOG 6511): 13 December 2019, 4 short answers and 16 MCQs
- Year 4 Gynaecology CAT (MBOG 4212): 13 December 2019
- Pathology Spot Exam Revision: Lymphoma, Adenoma, Appendicitis, FISH
Practice questions on Fibroids
ONE of the following is the most likely complication of submucosal fibroids of the uterus.
- Torsion
- Menorrhagia
- Infertility
- Metastasis
- Hydronephrosis ✅ Answer: B
Answer: A. Submucosal fibroids commonly cause heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) due to their proximity to the endometrial cavity.
A 35-year-old woman presents with heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pressure. Ultrasound reveals multiple well-circumscribed masses in the uterus composed of smooth muscle cells arranged in whorled patterns. Which diagnosis is most likely? The classic "whorled" smooth-muscle bundle appearance of a benign fibroid. ---
- Endometrial carcinoma
- Leiomyoma
- Leiomyosarcoma
- Adenomyosis
- Stage 3b cervical cancer
Answer: B.