Intestinal Leiomyoma

An intestinal leiomyoma is a benign tumor that develops from the smooth muscle of the intestinal wall. It usually grows slowly and, in many cases, causes no discomfort, being discovered incidentally during tests performed for other reasons.

Common symptoms: when it does cause manifestations, abdominal pain, a sensation of a mass, changes in bowel transit or, on some occasions, digestive bleeding may appear. Many people remain without symptoms.

Common causes: it originates from the abnormal, though benign, growth of the muscle cells of the intestinal wall; its triggers are not always evident.

Which specialist evaluates it? The initial evaluation can be started by the general practitioner, who refers the patient to the gastroenterologist or the surgeon depending on the case. If you have persistent abdominal pain or bleeding, it is advisable to seek a professional evaluation to define appropriate follow-up.