The most common degeneration of uterine fibroids

The most common degenerations of uterine fibroids are hyalinization and erythematous degeneration. Uterine fibroid degeneration refers to histological changes in uterine fibroids due to insufficient blood supply or special stimulation, which mainly include hyaline degeneration, erythematous degeneration, cystic degeneration, calcification and sarcomatoid degeneration, among which hyaline degeneration and erythematous degeneration are more common.

1. Glass deformation

Hyalinization is the most common degeneration type of uterine fibroids. It is more common when the fibroids grow slowly or have insufficient blood supply. The smooth muscle cells in the fibroid tissue are gradually replaced by uniform and transparent glass-like material, the texture becomes hard, and the cut surface is gray-white. Patients may have no obvious symptoms, and some may experience increased menstrual flow or a feeling of bloating in the lower abdomen. Ultrasound examination shows that the internal echo of the fibroid is uniformly reduced. If there are no symptoms, you can observe them regularly. If the symptoms are obvious, surgical resection should be considered.

2. Red color change

Red changes occur more often during pregnancy or the puerperium, and are related to venous thrombosis or bleeding in fibroids. The cut surface of the fibroid appears dark red like raw beef, accompanied by necrosis and hemolysis. Patients often have sudden severe abdominal pain accompanied by fever, which may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Routine blood tests showed elevated white blood cells. Pregnant patients require conservative treatment, while non-pregnant patients with severe symptoms require myomectomy.

3. Cystic change

Cystic degeneration is the result of the continued development of hyaline degeneration, in which the fibroid tissue liquefies to form cystic cavities of varying sizes. The fibroids were soft in texture on palpation and showed an echogenic area on ultrasound. Patients may experience pelvic compression symptoms or menstrual abnormalities. Small asymptomatic cystic changes can be observed, while larger or symptomatic cases require surgical intervention.

4. Calcification

Calcification is more common in postmenopausal women, where calcium salt deposition occurs due to reduced blood supply to fibroids. X-ray examination shows irregular calcifications in the fibroid area. Patients are usually asymptomatic, and a few may feel a hard lump in the lower abdomen. If there are no symptoms, no treatment is needed. If the calcification is severe, surgical removal is required.

5. Sarcomatoid changes

Sarcomatoid degeneration is a rare malignant transformation of fibroids into sarcomas. The probability is extremely low but the prognosis is poor. Fibroids increase rapidly in a short period of time, and the cut surface appears grayish-yellow fish-like. Patients may experience symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding and weight loss. Diagnosis requires pathological examination, and treatment requires extensive hysterectomy combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Patients with uterine fibroids should undergo regular gynecological examinations to monitor changes in fibroids. It is necessary to maintain a regular schedule in daily life to avoid overexertion. Pay attention to a balanced diet, appropriately increase the intake of high-quality protein and fresh vegetables and fruits, and limit high-fat foods. Avoid abusing estrogen-based health products and keep your weight within a normal range. If symptoms such as abnormal abdominal pain or menstrual changes occur, you need to seek medical treatment promptly and choose conservative observation or surgical treatment according to the doctor's advice.