What is the difference between adenomyoma and uterine fibroids?

Nov 08, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Adenomyoma usually refers to uterine adenomyosis. Generally speaking, the main differences between uterine adenomyosis and uterine fibroids include pathogenesis, clinical symptoms, imaging examinations, microscopic features, treatment, and recurrence. If you experience any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Therefore, when related symptoms occur, timely consultation with a healthcare professional is advised to obtain accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations.

Adenomyoma usually refers to uterine adenomyosis. Generally speaking, the main differences between uterine adenomyosis and uterine fibroids include pathogenesis, clinical symptoms, imaging examinations, microscopic features, treatment, and recurrence. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation and examination are recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Pathogenesis

Uterine fibroids are formed by abnormal proliferation of uterine smooth muscle cells into masses, usually with clear boundaries, clearly demarcated from surrounding uterine muscle tissue. Fibroids can be single or multiple, varying in size. Uterine adenomyoma results from the invasion of endometrial glands and stroma into the uterine muscular layer, presenting as diffuse or focal hyperplasia of endometrial glands and stroma within the uterine muscle layer. There is no clear boundary, and it fuses with the normal muscular tissue.

2. Clinical Symptoms

Most patients with uterine fibroids do not exhibit clinical symptoms. Only intramural fibroids protruding into the uterine cavity and submucosal fibroids commonly cause increased menstrual bleeding and prolonged menstrual periods, but dysmenorrhea is rarely associated. Some patients may experience symptoms such as abdominal pressure, frequent urination, constipation, and back pain. The main symptom of uterine adenomyoma is secondary progressive worsening dysmenorrhea, often accompanied by menorrhagia and prolonged menstrual periods. It also may cause pelvic pain, discomfort during sexual intercourse, and infertility.

3. Imaging Examination

On ultrasound, uterine fibroids appear as round or oval masses within the uterus with clear edges. Uterine adenomyoma appears on imaging as a uniformly enlarged uterus with heterogeneous myometrial echotexture, possibly accompanied by focal hypoechoic areas.

4. Microscopic Features

Under microscopic examination, uterine fibroids are mainly composed of spindle-shaped smooth muscle cells and varying amounts of fibrous connective tissue arranged in a whorled pattern. Under microscopic examination, uterine adenomyoma is characterized by ectopic endometrial glands and stroma distributed in island-like patterns within the muscular layer.

5. Treatment and Recurrence

Treatment options for uterine fibroids include observation, medication, interventional therapy, and surgery, depending on the size, location, and symptoms of the fibroid. Treatment for uterine adenomyoma is usually more complex; medication can relieve symptoms but cannot provide a radical cure. For severe adenomyoma, surgical treatment such as local adenomyoma resection or hysterectomy may be required, but the risk of recurrence after surgery is relatively high.

Therefore, when related symptoms occur, timely medical consultation with a specialist is necessary to obtain an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment recommendations.

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What should I do if I become pregnant with uterine fibroids?

In general, women who become pregnant with uterine fibroids should manage their condition through enhanced prenatal monitoring, adjustment of daily activities, attention to nutritional diet, awareness of physical symptoms, and cooperation with medical interventions. It is important to maintain a positive mindset during pregnancy and avoid excessive anxiety, as anxious emotions may affect hormone levels and jeopardize pregnancy stability. At the same time, maintain close communication with the physician to stay informed about both maternal and fetal conditions.

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Is uterine fibroid serious?

In general, the severity of uterine fibroids needs to be determined based on their size, symptoms, and growth pattern. Small fibroids without symptoms are usually not serious and do not require special treatment; however, fibroids that cause significant symptoms or grow rapidly are considered more severe and require timely intervention. In daily life, it is important to maintain a regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "routine" or "lifestyle rhythm"), avoid excessive fatigue, limit the intake of foods high in estrogen, and reduce the risk of fibroid growth.

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How are uterine fibroids caused?

Under normal circumstances, the main causes of uterine fibroids include hormonal changes, aging, endometritis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and adenomyosis. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, one should maintain external genital hygiene and avoid unclean sexual activity; maintain a regular diet and balanced nutrition.

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How is adenomyoma of the uterus caused?

Under normal circumstances, the main causes of adenomyoma of the uterus include hormonal imbalance, fertility-related factors, endometritis, endometrial polyps, and intrauterine adhesions. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, one should maintain external genital hygiene and avoid unclean sexual activity; maintain a regular diet, ensure balanced nutrition, and avoid the abuse of hormone-containing health products.