Plated Fibroid Tumor

A fibroid tumor is a usually benign---noncancerous---growth which can develop in the smooth layers of muscle, or myometrium, in the uterine walls or within the uterine cavity. Fibroid tumors can come in a range of sizes, from barely detectable to "grapefruit" size, according to Merck Manuals. Tumors can also come in a variety of shapes, including what is called a pedunculated tumor, a version of which is known as a "plated" fibroid tumor.

Definition

• Plated fibroid tumors are usually "pedunculated," meaning they grow on a "pedicle" or fleshy stalk that is connected to healthy tissue of the inner uterine wall. This type of tumor is also known as a submucous fibroid, because it originates within in the mucous lining of the uterus, according to the Merck Manuals. The plated, or plate-like, portion of the fibroid tumor grows like a flattened dish on top of the stalk. According to Women's Health magazine, this type of fibroid tumor can resemble the flat cap to a mushroom with a long stem (the pedicle).

Painful Symptoms

• The plated or pedunculated fibroid tumor can cause menstrual dysfunction, painful cramping and bloating, and even cause miscarriage, according to Women's Health. In addition to painful symptoms, the upper or "plate-like" portion of the fibroid can also move on its stem or pedicle. Because the plated portion of the tumor can move, it can push or protrude from the wall into the uterus. It can even expand into the vagina, according to Health Square.

Other Dangers

• The long pedicle or stem that attaches to the plated fibroid tumor can also turn and twist, according to Womens Health. This twisting motion can pinch off or limit the blood supply to the tumor. If the plated fibroid tumor loses its blood supply---via the pedicle stalk-- the plated portion will begin to shrivel and deteriorate---a process known as "red degeneration," according to the Merck Manuals. Red degeneration can cause uterine bleeding between menstruation and can lead to possible infection.

Diagnosis

• Ultrasound imaging is a standard way for gynecologists to detect and analyze all fibroids, including plated or pedunculated fibroid tumors. Gynecologic sonography, also known as sonohysterography, and magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, are both used to analyze size and placement of fibroid tumors. Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is a technique that uses a fluoroscope to scan both the uterus and fallopian tubes for fibroids.

Treatment

• According to the Merck Manuals, the most common treatment for all benign fibroid tumors of any shape is "watchful waiting" to see if the tumor continues to grow or causes physical problems such as severe intrauterine cramping, pressure on the bladder or infertility. If growth continues and/or health issues worsens, particularly with the plated or pedunculated fibroid tumor, surgical procedures such as a hysterectomy---uterus removal---or myomectomy---a partial removal---may be necessary.

Sarcomatous Fibroids

• Sarcomatous fibroids, also known as leiomyosarcoma, are tumors which are cancerous. This type of fibroid rarely occurs, according to the Merck Manuals, even with plated or pedunculated fibroid tumors. If the ultrasound imaging diagnosis is unclear, however, a surgical biopsy of the fibroid is needed to make sure the fibroid is noncancerous. Sarcomatous fibroids must be surgically removed immediately.