Ovarian Tumors (Fibroma)
Overview
Plain-Language Overview
Ovarian tumors called fibromas are noncancerous growths that develop in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. These tumors are made up mostly of fibrous connective tissue, which is a type of tissue that supports and holds other tissues together. Fibromas usually grow slowly and often do not cause symptoms, but when they do, they can lead to pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, or pressure. Sometimes, fibromas can be associated with a condition called Meigs syndrome, which includes fluid buildup in the abdomen and around the lungs. Although fibromas are benign, they can affect health by causing discomfort or complications if they grow large or twist the ovary.
Clinical Definition
Ovarian tumors (fibromas) are benign stromal neoplasms composed predominantly of spindle-shaped fibroblasts producing abundant collagen. They arise from the ovarian connective tissue rather than the epithelial surface and represent a subset of sex cord-stromal tumors. These tumors are typically unilateral and slow-growing, often presenting in middle-aged women. Clinically, they may be asymptomatic or cause symptoms due to mass effect such as pelvic pain or pressure. A key clinical association is Meigs syndrome, characterized by the triad of ovarian fibroma, ascites, and pleural effusion, which resolves after tumor removal. Histologically, fibromas show bundles of collagen-producing fibroblasts without significant atypia or mitotic activity. Their benign nature distinguishes them from malignant ovarian neoplasms, but they require differentiation from other stromal tumors like thecomas and fibrosarcomas.