Difference Between Cysts & Fibroid Tumors

Fibroid tumors are a fairly common occurrence in women. Some people call them fibroid cysts, but this is incorrect. Fibroids and cysts are two different kinds of masses; howeve, both are benign and often cause no symptoms.

Definition of a Cyst

A cyst is a fluid-filled sac. It is not solid. A mass that consists of both fluid and solid components is said to be cystic and solid.

Definition of a Fibroid

A fibroid is a muscle tumor in the uterus. Muscle is solid, so fibroids are solid. A fibroid that is breaking down may have cystic components.

Fibroid Location

Fibroids may occur in any of three layers of the uterus: the inner endometrial layer, the middle and muscular myometrial layer or the outer capsule, called the subserosal layer.

Uterine Cysts

Small cysts may occur in the endometrial or myometrial layers of the uterus. These may be the result of other conditions, such as adenomyosis, but the cysts are not fibroids. Adenomyosis is the invasive growth of the endometrium into the myometrium of the uterus.

Effects on Ultrasound

Ultrasound is used to examine fibroids and cysts. Cysts cause enhancement, making everything behind the cyst brighter and clearer. Fibroids can attenuate the ultrasound, causing shadowing and hiding everything behind them.

References

• Mayo Clinic: Fibroids
• Mayo Clinic: Adenomyosis

Who Can HelpSponsored

• How to Lose 30+lbs Guaranteed. Try it Free.