Fibroma: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment and Outlook — What You Need to Know
Updated: 2 days ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: September 2026
Fibromas are noncancerous (benign) tumors composed of fibrous, connective tissue. Because connective tissue is found throughout the human body, these growths can develop almost anywhere, including the skin, mouth, bones, and internal organs like the uterus. While most fibromas are asymptomatic and harmless, some can cause pain, swelling, or functional issues depending on their location and size. For example, plantar fibromas in the foot can make walking painful, while uterine fibroids can lead to pelvic pain and heavy menstruation. Causes range from genetics and hormonal changes to localized trauma or injury. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs, and sometimes a biopsy. Treatment is generally not required unless the fibroma causes symptoms or cosmetic concerns, in which case options include surgical removal, cryotherapy, or specialized noninvasive therapies.
Quick Answer: What is a Fibroma?
A fibroma is a benign growth made of fibrous connective tissue. Unlike fibrosarcomas, which are malignant, fibromas are not cancerous and do not pose a life-threatening risk. They are extremely common; for instance, uterine fibroids affect up to 70% of women, and non-ossifying bone fibromas are found in 20% to 40% of healthy children. Symptoms vary widely by type: skin fibromas appear as hard lumps, oral fibromas as smooth bumps in the mouth, and plantar fibromas as firm knots in the foot arch. Most fibromas are diagnosed through physical examination and imaging. Treatment is elective and focused on symptom relief, often involving orthotics for foot growths, monitoring for bone tumors, or surgery for symptomatic uterine or oral fibromas.
What Is a Fibroma?
The definition of a fibroma is a noncancerous tumor consisting of fibrous, connective tissue. These growths are typically slow-growing and do not spread to other parts of the body.
Common Types of Fibromas
Plantar Fibroma: Location: Arch of the foot; Description: A firm lump in the plantar fascia tissue.
Non-Ossifying Fibroma: Location: Bone (often legs); Description: A benign bone tumor made of scar-like tissue; does not calcify.
Angiofibroma: Location: Face (nose/cheeks); Description: Small, pink or red pimple-like growths made of blood vessels.
Dermatofibroma: Location: Skin (arms/legs/back); Description: Hard, deep purple or flesh-colored lumps below the skin.
Oral Fibroma: Location: Inside the mouth; Description: Smooth bumps on the inner cheek, often due to irritation.
Uterine Fibroid: Location: Uterus; Description: Growths on the uterine wall; can be single or multiple.
Who Is Affected by Fibromas?
While anyone can develop these growths, certain types show distinct patterns across different age groups and ethnicities.
Demographics and Risk Patterns
Children: Non-ossifying fibromas are particularly common in children, affecting up to 40% of healthy youngsters.
Adults: Most other types, including dermatofibromas and plantar fibromas, primarily affect adults.
Women: Uterine fibroids are highly prevalent in women, especially those in their 30s and 40s. Dermatofibromas also appear more frequently in women.
Ethnicity: Uterine fibroids are two to five times more common in Black women. Plantar fibromas are more likely to affect individuals of European descent.
Symptoms and Warning Signs
Symptoms are entirely dependent on the location and size of the growth. Many individuals have fibromas for years without realizing it.
Symptoms by Fibroma Type
Plantar: Firm lump in foot arch; significant pain when walking or standing.
Non-Ossifying: Usually asymptomatic; may cause swelling if very large.
Dermatofibroma: Sensitive to touch; may itch, change color, or cause tenderness.
Oral: Smooth bumps; usually painless unless repeatedly irritated.
Uterine: Pelvic/back pain, heavy or irregular periods, infertility, bowel/bladder issues.
Causes and Risk Factors
The development of fibromas can be attributed to several factors, though some types occur for unknown reasons.
Why Fibromas Develop
Genetics: Some types, like angiofibromas, occur due to uncontrollable cell growth linked to genetic factors.
Hormones: Uterine fibroids are heavily influenced by estrogen and progesterone; they often shrink after menopause when hormone levels drop.
Trauma and Irritation: Oral fibromas often follow a mouth injury or chronic irritation (like cheek biting). Dermatofibromas can be triggered by insect bites or splinters.
Unknown: The exact causes of plantar and non-ossifying fibromas remain unidentified.
Diagnosis and Pathological Testing
Healthcare providers use a combination of physical exams and technology to confirm the presence of a fibroma.
Diagnostic Tools
Physical Exam: Assessing the lump's firmness, color, and sensitivity.
Imaging (X-ray/CT/MRI): Visualizing the growth's size and its impact on surrounding tissue.
Ultrasound: Commonly used to evaluate uterine fibroids and soft tissue lumps.
Bone Scan: Used specifically for identifying non-ossifying bone tumors.
Biopsy: Examining a tissue sample under a microscope to rule out malignancy.
Treatment and Management Options
Treatment is not mandatory for most fibromas. Intervention is typically reserved for cases where the growth interferes with daily life or causes distress.
Treatment Strategies by Type
Plantar: Noninvasive options include shoe inserts (orthotics), stretching, or steroid injections. Surgery is rare.
Non-Ossifying: Usually monitored via "watchful waiting." Large tumors may be removed to prevent bone weakening.
Skin/Face: Angiofibromas and dermatofibromas can be treated with cryotherapy (freezing), laser therapy, or dermabrasion.
Oral: Surgical removal is the standard, alongside managing the source of irritation to prevent recurrence.
Uterine: Options include medication, uterine artery embolization, or surgical removal (myomectomy).
Outlook and Prevention
The prognosis for fibromas is excellent because they are benign. They are not life-threatening and do not turn into cancer.
Outlook and Prevention Facts
Prognosis: Excellent; growths are harmless unless symptomatic.
Prevention (Trauma): Use bug spray and protective gear to avoid skin injuries.
Prevention (Oral): Avoid cheek/lip biting and maintain regular dental check-ups.
Genetics/Unknown: Currently, no known way to prevent genetic or idiopathic types.
Conclusion: A Note from the Care Team
Fibromas are common, harmless growths that can appear almost anywhere. In most cases, they don't require treatment and won't affect your long-term health. However, if a growth becomes painful, changes appearance, or interferes with your daily activities, you should consult a healthcare provider for a professional evaluation.
Next Steps for Management
Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on any skin or mouth lumps for changes in size, color, or sensitivity.
Consult a Specialist: See a podiatrist for foot pain, a gynecologist for pelvic issues, or a dermatologist for skin growths.
Address Irritants: If you have an oral fibroma, work with your dentist to identify and stop the source of irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a fibroma?
It is a noncancerous (benign) tumor or growth made of fibrous connective tissue.
Are fibromas cancerous?
No, fibromas are benign. The malignant (cancerous) version is called a fibrosarcoma.
Where can fibromas grow?
They can grow almost anywhere, including the skin, mouth, bones, and internal organs like the uterus.
What is a plantar fibroma?
It is a lump in the arch of the foot, specifically in the plantar fascia tissue.
Do fibromas cause pain?
Most do not, but plantar fibromas can cause pain when walking, and uterine fibroids can cause pelvic pain.
What are uterine fibroids?
They are a common type of fibroma that grows in or on the walls of the uterus.
How common are uterine fibroids?
They affect up to 70% of women during their lifetime, particularly those in their 30s and 40s.
What is a non-ossifying fibroma?
It is a benign bone tumor made of scar-like tissue, very common in children.
Can children get fibromas?
Yes, non-ossifying fibromas affect 20% to 40% of healthy children.
What causes oral fibromas?
They are usually caused by chronic irritation or trauma, such as biting the inside of the cheek.
What are dermatofibromas?
These are hard lumps that develop under the skin, often on the arms or legs.
What are angiofibromas?
Small, pimple-like growths on the face made of blood vessels and fibrous tissue.
Can genetics cause fibromas?
Yes, certain types like angiofibromas are linked to genetic factors.
Do hormones affect fibromas?
Yes, uterine fibroids are influenced by estrogen and progesterone levels.
How are fibromas diagnosed?
They are diagnosed through physical exams, imaging (X-rays, MRIs, Ultrasounds), and sometimes biopsies.
Do I need to have a fibroma removed?
Treatment is usually unnecessary unless the growth causes pain, symptoms, or cosmetic concerns.
What is a biopsy?
A procedure where a small tissue sample is taken to be examined under a microscope.
How are plantar fibromas treated?
Treatment includes shoe inserts (orthotics), stretching, or steroid injections; surgery is rare.
Can fibromas be removed with a laser?
Yes, laser therapy is an option for certain skin and facial fibromas.
What is cryotherapy?
A treatment that uses extreme cold (freezing) to remove skin growths.
What is a myomectomy?
A surgical procedure specifically designed to remove uterine fibroids.
Can fibromas grow back?
Some types, especially oral fibromas, can reoccur if the source of irritation is not addressed.
Can I prevent fibromas?
You can lower the risk of trauma-induced fibromas by avoiding injuries, but genetic types cannot be prevented.
Do uterine fibroids shrink?
Yes, they often get smaller after menopause when hormone levels naturally decrease.
Are fibromas life-threatening?
No, they are benign and generally not serious.
What is the difference between a fibroma and a fibrosarcoma?
A fibroma is noncancerous (benign), while a fibrosarcoma is cancerous (malignant).
Can an insect bite cause a fibroma?
Yes, dermatofibromas can sometimes be triggered by minor injuries like insect bites or splinters.
Should I see a dentist for a mouth lump?
Yes, a dentist can evaluate oral fibromas and help manage the source of irritation.
What imaging is best for fibromas?
The choice depends on the location; X-rays are used for bones, while MRIs and Ultrasounds are common for soft tissues.
What should I do if my fibroma changes color?
You should see a healthcare provider to ensure the growth is still benign and evaluate if treatment is needed.
References and Further Reading
Cleveland Clinic: Fibroma Overview (Updated 08/12/2022).
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Nonossifying Fibroma Guide.
American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society: Plantar Fibroma and Fibromatosis.
National Cancer Institute: Angiofibroma Dictionary of Cancer Terms.
Indian Journal of Ophthalmology: Multiple Soft Fibromas of the Lid (2015).
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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