Radiological appearances of uterine fibroids

TLDR

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are the most common uterine neoplasms, are benign yet can cause significant morbidity and are the leading indication for hysterectomy, are often incidentally discovered during imaging for other reasons, are usually first identified with ultrasound and further characterized with MRI, and while typically easily recognizable, degenerated fibroids can have unusual appearances. The study aims to describe the appearances of typical and atypical uterine fibroids, unusual fibroid variants, and fibroid mimics across different imaging modalities. This is achieved by reviewing imaging modalities such as ultrasound and MRI to characterize these fibroids. Understanding the varied imaging appearances of fibroids facilitates prompt diagnosis and informs treatment decisions.

Abstract

Abstract Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are the commonest uterine neoplasms. Although benign, they can be associated with significant morbidity and are the commonest indication for hysterectomy. They are often discovered incidentally when performing imaging for other reasons. Usually first identified with USG, they can be further characterized with MRI. They are usually easily recognizable, but degenerate fibroids can have unusual appearances. In this article, we describe the appearances of typical and atypical uterine fibroids, unusual fibroid variants and fibroid mimics on different imaging modalities. Knowledge of the different appearances of fibroids on imaging is important as it enables prompt diagnosis and thereby guides treatment.