Summary about Disease
A fibroma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor composed of fibrous or connective tissue. They can occur in various parts of the body. While generally harmless, they can sometimes cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns depending on their size and location.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the location and size of the fibroma. Some fibromas are asymptomatic (cause no symptoms). When symptoms do occur, they might include:
A palpable lump or growth under the skin
Pain or tenderness in the affected area
Discomfort or pressure on surrounding tissues
Limitation of movement, depending on the location
Cosmetic disfigurement
Causes
The exact cause of fibromas is often unknown. Some potential contributing factors include:
Genetic predisposition
Trauma or injury to the area
Hormonal changes
Chronic irritation or inflammation
Medicine Used
There is no specific medicine to cure or shrink fibromas. Treatment is usually not necessary unless the fibroma is causing symptoms. Surgical removal is the most common treatment for problematic fibromas. Pain relievers (over-the-counter or prescription) may be used to manage pain or discomfort associated with the fibroma.
Is Communicable
No, fibromas are not communicable. They cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are generally no specific precautions to prevent fibromas, as the causes are often unclear. However:
Protect yourself from injuries
Manage hormonal imbalances
Seek medical attention for any new or changing lumps or growths on your body
How long does an outbreak last?
Fibromas are not considered an "outbreak" situation like an infection. They are growths that can persist indefinitely unless treated. The duration of a fibroma depends on whether it is left alone, treated, or if it regresses on its own (rare).
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
Physical Examination: Doctor will examine the lump.
Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, X-rays, or MRI may be used to visualize the growth and rule out other conditions.
Biopsy: A small sample of the tissue may be taken and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis and rule out malignancy.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary:
Gradual appearance: Many fibromas develop slowly over time.
Stable size: Some may remain stable in size for years.
Slow growth: Others may slowly increase in size.
Sudden awareness: Sometimes, a fibroma is noticed suddenly, even though it may have been present for some time.
Important Considerations
While fibromas are generally benign, it's crucial to have any new or changing lumps evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out other potentially serious conditions.
Treatment decisions should be made in consultation with your doctor, taking into account the size, location, symptoms, and your overall health.
Even after removal, there is a small chance of recurrence, so follow-up appointments with your doctor are important.