Case Study of Profound Uterine Fibroids

Emma Hsieh, Konnie Le, Andrew Fletcher, OMS-I, Cara L. Fisher, Ph.D. Abstract: Background: Uterine fibroid, also called leiomyoma, is a common benign tumor that affects more than 200,000 individuals annually. It is often associated with conditions such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome, which are also common gynecological issues in the United States. Case Information: During a routine dissection of a 67-year-old African American female cadaver multiple uterine fibroids were found, including one large pedunculated fibroid located outside the uterus, as well as a pedunculated intracavitary fibroid filling the uterine cavity. The intracavitary fibroid caused an enlargement and hardening of the uterus. The intracavity fibroid was calcified with "tooth-like" structures on the surface. The uterine artery would have supplied the uterus and thus the fibroids, facilitating their growth. In this case, the tumor compressed the nerves and vessels around it and impinged the bladder, rectum, and other reproductive structures. Pelvic structures were difficult to identify in the dissection due to the size of the fibroids and the shifting of the pelvic viscera. Conclusion: This case study shows a rare incident of fibroids presentation in cadavers, as most women around her age have often undergone hysterectomy. In addition, the fibroids showed extensive growth and calcification, occupying a large space in her pelvic region. It is important to document findings of fibroids, like the ones discovered in this case study, as they are often associated with serious medical implications, such as pelvic pain, urinary issues, or intermenstrual bleeding.