Could it be Both a Fibroid and Cancer?
In a previous post, I shared the alarming issues I've been facing for the past four months, including the discovery of a large mass during my yearly gynecological check-up. A month earlier, my primary care physician had ordered an abdominal ultrasound due to my ongoing abdominal discomfort. The results revealed that I have a significant fibroid, measuring 14.8 cm, predominantly located on the right side. However, this finding only accounts for some of my symptoms: I experience a feeling of fullness shortly after meals, bloating, constipation, persistent pain in my lower back, pelvis, and abdomen, as well as fatigue and heavy, irregular menstrual cycles with large blood clots. What could explain the additional symptoms I’m grappling with, such as unintended weight loss and noticeable lymph nodes across my abdomen, including some on the left side and one or two small nodes along my left torso and ribs? I also experience intermittent discomfort in the groin area, making it tricky to ascertain if the nodes are truly palpable; at times, I think I can feel them. Next week, I am scheduled for a colonoscopy and upper endoscopy, along with an abdominal and pelvic CT ordered by a gastroenterologist. Sadly, my previous CT request from my primary care physician was denied after a month's wait for an appointment, so I'm hopeful this new request will be approved. I'm aware that I need an MRI, and I'm currently awaiting my gynecological appointment, since the physician covering for my primary care doctor indicated that I require a referral from the gynecologist. I'm conscious that some of my symptoms are unusual, and I am deeply fearful that this could indicate something beyond just a fibroid.
Answers (1)
7/29/2025, 7:01:56 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious given your complex symptoms and the medical evaluations you are undergoing. The combination of a significant fibroid and your additional symptoms, including unintended weight loss, lymph node enlargement, and discomfort in the groin, raises valid concerns that you want to explore thoroughly.
Main Points:
- The fibroid might explain some of your pelvic and menstrual symptoms, but your additional symptoms require further investigation.
- Symptoms like unintended weight loss and lymph node enlargement can be due to various benign and malignant conditions that need to be evaluated.
Explanation:
A fibroid can cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, fullness, and heavy menstrual bleeding, but it typically wouldn't cause weight loss, significant bloating, or lymph node enlargement. These additional symptoms can indicate other conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, infections, inflammatory processes, or, less commonly, malignancies.
Cancer can present with symptoms similar to those you describe, but it’s also important to acknowledge that there are many benign explanations for lymph node enlargement and abdominal discomfort. The tests you are undergoing, including the colonoscopy and CT scans, are appropriate next steps to help elucidate what might be happening.
Next Steps:
- Complete Your Scheduled Tests: Ensure you follow through with your colonoscopy, upper endoscopy, and CT scans. These tests will provide critical information about your gastrointestinal health and any potential issues in your abdomen.
- Keep a Symptom Journal: Track your symptoms, noting their frequency, intensity, and any changes (like new symptoms or fluctuation in existing symptoms) to share with your healthcare providers.
- Discuss Your Concerns: During your upcoming appointments (especially with the gynecologist), express your worries about the possibility of cancer and the unusual symptoms you're experiencing. Having clear communication about your fears can guide your medical team in addressing them.
- Request an MRI When Possible: If further imaging is necessary, ensure to follow up on the MRI request after your gynecological appointment as it can provide more detailed information about your pelvic region.
It's natural to feel overwhelmed, but you are taking the right steps by seeking tests and professional evaluations. Make sure to lean on your support network and communicate openly with your healthcare team as more information becomes available. Remember, you're not alone in navigating this process.
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