Fibroma pendulum is a medical term used to describe a commonly occurring benign soft tissue tumor. The spelling of this term can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first word, fibroma, is pronounced as /faɪˈbrəʊmə/, with the stress on the second syllable. The second word, pendulum, is pronounced as /ˈpɛndjʊləm/, with the stress on the first syllable. The spelling of this term may be difficult for individuals who are not familiar with medical terminology, but its pronunciation can be easily understood using phonetic transcription.
Fibroma pendulum, also known as skin tags or acrochordons, is a benign skin growth that appears as a small, soft, hanging piece of flesh or tissue on the skin surface. It is commonly found in areas where skin creases or folds, such as the neck, eyelids, underarms, groin, or beneath the breasts.
The term "fibroma" refers to a benign tumor derived from fibrous connective tissue. In the case of fibroma pendulum, it typically develops when a small area of skin is subject to friction or rubbing against another skin surface. This constant irritation may cause the skin to form a growth, leading to the development of fibroma pendulum.
Fibroma pendulum is usually harmless, painless, and does not require treatment except for cosmetic purposes or if it becomes bothersome due to rubbing against clothing or jewelry. While the exact causes of fibroma pendulum are unknown, some potential factors may include genetics, hormonal imbalances, obesity, diabetes, or age. It is more prevalent in middle-aged individuals and tends to occur more frequently in women.
Although fibroma pendulum is generally harmless, it is crucial to differentiate it from other skin growths like warts, moles, or malignant tumors. If there is uncertainty about the nature of a growth or if it shows sudden changes in color, size, or shape, consulting a healthcare professional becomes essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
A large pendulous fibrous tumor of the skin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "fibroma pendulum" is a medical term used to describe a certain type of skin growth called a skin tag or acrochordon.
The etymology of this term can be broken down as follows:
1. Fibroma: The word "fibroma" originates from Greek and Latin roots. It combines the Greek word "phis", meaning "fiber", with the Latin suffix "-oma", which refers to a tumor or mass. Therefore, "fibroma" literally translates to a fiber-like tumor or mass.
2. Pendulum: The word "pendulum" comes from the Latin word "pendulus", meaning "hanging". It is derived from the Latin verb "pendere", which means "to hang". In the context of "fibroma pendulum", the term describes the characteristic of these skin growths to hang or dangle from the skin.