Calcified Uterine Fibroids: Are They Cancerous?

Uterine fibroids are growths that occur in the uterus. These are common for women in their late 20s to their early 40s. Uterine fibroids rarely are malignant.

Uterine Fibroids

• Uterine fibroids are caused by too much estrogen and progestin in the bloodstream. They develop out of the muscle and connective tissue in the uterus.

Calcified Uterine Fibroids

• Some of these fibroids can have calcium deposits coated on the outside of them. These deposits usually are on older fibroids.

Leiomyosarcoma

• A fibroid that is malignant is called a leiomyosarcoma. Less than 1 percent of fibroids are malignant. These are characterized by rapid growth.

Surgery

• Surgical removal is done if a leiomyosarcoma is suspected or if the fibroid is causing bleeding or pain. Most women with fibroids have no symptoms.

Alternative Treatments

• Other treatments include drugs that reduce estrogen, using high-intensity ultrasound waves to destroy the fibroid, or using electrical current or lasers to destroy the blood vessels that supply the fibroid.