Can uterine fibroids become cancerous?

Uterine fibroids usually refer to uterine leiomyoma, which is a common benign tumor in women. The vast majority of uterine fibroids are benign and will not turn into cancer. The causes and treatment options of uterine fibroids include benign tumors, asymptomatic small fibroids, symptomatic fibroids, fibroid degeneration, and very few cancers. If the symptoms persist, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time and take measures under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Benign tumors: Most uterine fibroids are benign and will not turn into cancer. Uterine fibroids are composed of smooth muscle cells and fibrous tissue. Although they may increase in size or increase in number, they usually do not affect health. Measures: Regular physical examinations to monitor changes in uterine fibroids, especially for women before and after menopause, as changes in hormone levels may cause fibroids to increase in size. If necessary, drug treatment can be used, such as medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets. Patients must use drugs according to doctor's instructions. If drug treatment is ineffective, surgical removal can be considered.

2. Asymptomatic small fibroids: Most uterine fibroids are asymptomatic, especially smaller ones. These fibroids are usually discovered accidentally during a physical examination and do not affect your health. Measures: For asymptomatic small fibroids, usually no special treatment is required, only regular follow-up and examinations are required to ensure that the fibroids have not changed significantly. If the fibroids begin to grow or symptoms appear, further evaluation and treatment are required.

3. Symptomatic fibroids: Some uterine fibroids may cause symptoms such as menorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, and lower abdominal distension and pain, which can affect daily life and work. Measures: For fibroids with obvious symptoms, medications such as medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets or levonorgestrel intrauterine sustained-release system can be used under the guidance of a doctor. Patients must follow the doctor's instructions to use medications. If drug treatment is ineffective, surgical treatments such as uterine artery embolization or myomectomy can be considered.

4. Degeneration of fibroids: A small number of uterine fibroids may undergo degeneration, such as red degeneration or hyaline degeneration, but they are still benign. Degenerated fibroids are often accompanied by symptoms such as acute abdominal pain and fever. Measures: For degenerated fibroids, if they cause obvious symptoms or have signs of suspected malignant transformation, surgical treatment is required to remove the degenerated part and perform pathological examination to determine the nature.

5. Rarely cancerous: In rare cases, uterine fibroids may become uterine sarcoma. Uterine sarcoma is a malignant tumor that is invasive and requires high attention. Measures: For suspected cancerous fibroids, timely surgical removal and pathological examination are required for confirmation. If confirmed as uterine sarcoma, further treatment is required, such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

Uterine fibroids are usually benign and will not turn into cancer, but they need regular monitoring and follow-up. For fibroids that have symptoms or are suspected of degeneration, you should seek medical attention and receive appropriate treatment in a timely manner. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and regular physical examinations can help detect and treat uterine fibroids early and ensure good health.