Fibromas are common, non-cancerous growths composed of fibrous connective tissue. These benign tumors do not spread to other parts of the body. They generally pose no serious health threat and often go unnoticed unless they cause discomfort or become visible.
Understanding Fibromas
Fibromas consist primarily of fibrous connective tissue. These growths form when these cells begin to multiply excessively, leading to a localized accumulation of tissue. They are typically firm or rubbery to the touch, and their texture can vary depending on the density of the fibrous tissue within them.
Most fibromas are slow-growing and remain relatively small over time. They are generally painless unless they are located in an area subject to friction or pressure, which can lead to irritation. A key characteristic of fibromas is their benign nature, meaning they are not cancerous and do not have the potential to invade surrounding tissues or metastasize to distant sites. This distinguishes them from malignant growths, which are often referred to as fibrosarcomas when they originate from fibrous tissue.
Common Types and Locations
Fibromas manifest in various forms and can appear in numerous locations throughout the body:
Soft fibromas (skin tags or acrochordons): These are small, soft, and often stalk-like growths that frequently appear in areas of friction. These are typically found on the neck, in the armpits, or within the groin folds.
Hard fibromas (dermatofibromas): These are firmer, reddish-brown nodules that often develop on the legs or arms. They tend to be slightly raised and may feel like a small button beneath the skin.
Oral fibromas: These are smooth, firm growths that can form inside the mouth, commonly found on the buccal mucosa (inner cheek lining) or tongue, often resulting from chronic irritation.
Plantar fibromas: These are firm, knot-like masses that develop within the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue on the sole of the foot. These can sometimes cause discomfort when walking due to pressure.
Non-ossifying fibromas (NOF): Also known as fibrous cortical defects, these are benign bone lesions typically found in the long bones of children and adolescents. They are often asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during imaging for other reasons.
Recognizing Fibromas and Seeking Medical Advice
Many fibromas are asymptomatic. However, their presence can sometimes lead to irritation or discomfort, especially if they are located in areas prone to rubbing or pressure from clothing or movement. A fibroma might become painful, tender, or even bleed if it is repeatedly rubbed or injured. Changes in size, shape, or color of a pre-existing growth can also occur.
It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider if a new growth appears, or if an existing growth changes rapidly in size, shape, or color. Medical evaluation is also warranted if a fibroma becomes painful, bleeds, or causes cosmetic concern. A doctor can typically diagnose a fibroma through a visual examination and by feeling the lump. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, particularly if there is any doubt about its benign nature.
Management and Treatment Options
Many fibromas do not require any treatment. A “watchful waiting” approach, where the growth is simply monitored over time, is often recommended for such cases. Intervention typically becomes an option when a fibroma causes pain, irritation, bleeding, or if it is a cosmetic concern for the individual.
When removal is desired or necessary, several treatment options are available, with the choice depending on the fibroma’s size, location, and type, as well as patient preference. Surgical excision involves cutting out the growth, which is a common method for larger or deeper fibromas. Smaller, superficial fibromas, such as skin tags, can often be removed using cryotherapy (freezing with liquid nitrogen), laser removal, or electrocautery (burning with an electric current). These procedures are generally straightforward and can often be performed in an outpatient setting.