Uterine fibroids: the elephant in the room

Science. 2005 Jun 10;308(5728):1589-92. doi: 10.1126/science.1112063.

Abstract

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) have historically been viewed as important chiefly as the major indication for hysterectomy. As new therapies are developed, the heterogeneity of this disease becomes therapeutically relevant. An awareness of the role of genetics, the extracellular matrix, and hormones in tumor etiology is key to understanding this disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Extracellular Matrix / physiology
  • Female
  • Gonadal Steroid Hormones / physiology
  • Growth Substances / physiology
  • Humans
  • Leiomyoma* / etiology
  • Leiomyoma* / genetics
  • Leiomyoma* / physiopathology
  • Leiomyoma* / therapy
  • Prevalence
  • Risk Factors
  • Uterine Neoplasms* / etiology
  • Uterine Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Uterine Neoplasms* / physiopathology
  • Uterine Neoplasms* / therapy

Substances

  • Gonadal Steroid Hormones
  • Growth Substances