Many people do not know which one is more serious between uterine fibroids and uterine sarcoma, or what the differences are. One of these diseases is a benign tumor, while the other is a malignant tumor. A single character difference results in vastly different outcomes, especially for breast conditions. Below, experts from Xi'an Ci'ai Gynecological Hospital will provide a detailed explanation of the differences between the two.
Uterine Sarcoma:
This is a rare, highly malignant tumor of the female reproductive system. Uterine sarcoma accounts for 2% of malignant uterine tumors, with an average onset age around 50 years old. Clinical manifestations mainly include abnormal vaginal bleeding (postmenopausal vaginal bleeding or irregular menstruation), abdominal mass (rapidly enlarging mass; if the sarcoma grows into the vagina, it often feels like there is a lump protruding in the vagina. The uterus may enlarge, become irregular in shape, feel firm but slightly soft), abdominal pain (caused by rapid growth of the tumor leading to abdominal distension or dull pain), increased vaginal discharge (serous, bloody, or white; when combined with infection, it can be purulent and foul-smelling), etc. In late stages, patients may experience weight loss, anemia, fever, general weakness, pelvic masses infiltrating the pelvic wall, and fixation without mobility.
For postmenopausal women or young girls experiencing irregular vaginal bleeding accompanied by an enlarged uterus, this disease should be highly suspected, and further corresponding examinations should be conducted, especially for those who have previously received radiation therapy, as they should be more vigilant.
Uterine Fibroid:
This is the most common benign tumor of the female reproductive system and also one of the most common tumors in the human body, with a higher incidence rate among women aged 30 to 50. Uterine fibroids are primarily formed due to the proliferation of uterine smooth muscle cells. There is a small amount of connective tissue fibers present only as supporting tissues. Its exact name should be uterine leiomyoma, commonly known as uterine fibroid. Since its occurrence is related to female hormones (estrogen and progesterone), it belongs to sex hormone-dependent tumors. Uterine fibroids mark the end of the uterus.
Patients with uterine fibroids usually do not exhibit obvious symptoms and are only accidentally discovered during gynecological examinations or surgery. Main symptoms may include changes in menstruation (increased menstrual flow, shortened cycle or prolonged periods, or irregular bleeding), pain (usually none, but acute abdominal pain may occur when the fibroid undergoes red degeneration, pedunculated fibroid twists, or submucosal fibroid stimulates the uterus to cause spasmodic contraction), pressure symptoms (fibroids pressing on the bladder causing frequent urination, urinary obstruction, or urinary retention. When pressing on the ureter, it can lead to hydronephrosis. Posterior wall uterine fibroids can compress the rectum, causing difficulty in defecation), increased vaginal discharge, infertility, anemia (long-term heavy menstruation can lead to secondary anemia), etc.
Xi'an Ci'ai Gynecological Hospital Warm Reminder: The above content provides a specific introduction to uterine fibroids. It is recommended that women with any related questions can click on online consultation at any time to contact the experts. Based on their actual situation, the experts will provide the most appropriate answers according to their circumstances.
This article is reprinted from Xi'an Ci'ai Gynecological Hospital. http://www.xaciai.com/fuke/zigongjibing/zigongjiliu/2011/0609/5174.html