Pathophysiology of fibroids

Fibroids are the commonest benign tumors of female genital tract. They are mainly composed of smooth muscle & fibrous connective tissue. Etiopathogenesis of fibroids is linked to hormones (estrogen & progesterone), genetic factors and some growth factors. Estrogen is the main predisposing factor-there is increased density of estrogen in fibroids compared to normal myometrium and increased concentration of aromatase leading to high local estrogen levels. The growth promoting effect of estrogen & progesterone has been shown to be mediated through local production of growth factors.