While a fibroma itself is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor composed of fibrous or connective tissue, whether it's considered a "disease" depends on the context and how broadly "disease" is defined. It's more accurately described as a condition or a growth. However, certain types of fibromatoses (related conditions) are considered proliferative disorders.
Here's a breakdown:
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Fibroma vs. Disease: A simple fibroma (e.g., a skin tag that is a fibroma molle) is usually just an isolated growth and not a systemic disease. It's a localized issue. However, if a fibroma causes significant symptoms, pain, or functional impairment, its presence can be considered a manifestation of a disease process.
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Fibromatosis: A Related Group of Conditions: Fibromatosis refers to a group of benign fibrous tissue tumors that can infiltrate surrounding tissues. Some types of fibromatosis are considered proliferative disorders. These conditions can be more aggressive and recurring, thus more often considered diseases. Examples include:
- Desmoid tumors (aggressive fibromatosis): These are deep fibromatoses that can be locally aggressive and difficult to treat.
- Palmar fibromatosis (Dupuytren's contracture): Affects the hand and can cause contractures.
- Plantar fibromatosis (Ledderhose disease): Affects the foot.
- Penile fibromatosis (Peyronie's disease): Affects the penis.
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Why the distinction matters: The distinction between a simple fibroma and fibromatosis is essential for diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. A simple fibroma might only require observation or simple excision, whereas fibromatosis often requires more aggressive treatment, including surgery, radiation, or systemic therapies.
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Symptoms Matter: Regardless of whether it is referred to as a disease, if a fibroma or fibromatosis causes pain, limits function, or is cosmetically unacceptable, medical intervention may be warranted.
In conclusion, a simple fibroma is generally not considered a disease, but a benign growth or condition. However, the fibromatoses (a related group of conditions) are often classified as proliferative disorders or diseases due to their potential for aggressive growth and infiltration.
