What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Cervical Müllerian Papilloma
• Intramural Papilloma of Uterine Cervix
• Mesonephric Papilloma of Uterine Cervix

What is Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix? (Definition/Background Information)

• Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix is a rare benign tumor. A vast majority of the tumors are found in very young girls. This childhood tumor may also form in the vagina
• There are no clearly established risk factors for Müllerian Papilloma of Cervix and the cause of tumor formation is unknown
• The tumor appears as a polyp-like lesion in the uterine cervix. No significant signs and symptoms or complications are typically noted. However, in some cases, it can cause abnormal bleeding and/or vaginal discharge
• Treatment course includes close observation of the tumor in asymptomatic cases and surgical management, if necessary. In general, the prognosis of Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix is excellent with suitable treatment

Who gets Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix is a rare tumor that is almost only observed in girl children (age 2-5 years mainly). However, it may be present in young girls between 1-9 years old
• There is no known ethnic or racial preference

What are the Risk Factors for Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix? (Predisposing Factors)

• No definitive risk factors have been identified for Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix? (Etiology)

• Currently, the exact cause and mechanism of formation of Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix is unknown
• Some scientists believe that these tumors form from abnormal embryological tissue remnants during the fetal growth and development stage

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix?

A majority of the tumors may be asymptomatic, presenting no significant signs and symptoms. In some cases, the following signs and symptoms of Cervical Müllerian Papilloma may be noted:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding and/or vaginal discharge; the bleeding may be revealed as spots in the diaper in very young children
• The polyp-like lesion is usually smaller than 2 cm in size
• The tumor may originate from multiple points (multi-focal lesion)
• Müllerian papillomas may be observed in the uterine cervix and vagina
• Large tumors may cause significant signs and symptoms such as abdominal/pelvic pain and discomfort, urination difficulties, and even lower back pain

How is Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix may involve the following steps:

• Evaluation of the individual’s medical history and a thorough physical (pelvic) examination
• Ultrasound scan of the abdomen
• CT or CAT scan with contrast of the abdomen and pelvis may show a well-defined mass. This radiological procedure creates detailed 3-dimensional images of structures inside the body
• MRI scans of the abdomen and pelvis: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field to create high-quality pictures of certain parts of the body, such as tissues, muscles, nerves, and bones. These high-quality pictures may reveal the presence of the tumor
• Cervical biopsy: It is the process of removing tissue for examination. In the case of Müllerian Papilloma, a complete excision and removal of the tumor can help in the process of a biopsy, as well as be a means for treating the condition

Note: Cervical Müllerian Papillomas may resemble cervical clear cell carcinomas when examined under a microscope; and hence, the polyp should be thoroughly sampled.

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix?

No significant complications of Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix are noted, because it is a benign tumor. However, the following may be observed in some cases:

• Stress due to a concern for cervical cancer
• Polyps can ulcerate and bleed resulting in secondary infections
• Fertility issues due to mechanical obstruction of the cervix, may occur later in life
• Polypoid tumors may undergo mechanical injury, such as torsion or twisting, which can result in excruciating pain
• Damage to the muscles, vital nerves, and blood vessels, during surgery
• Post-surgical infection at the wound site is a potential complication
• The tumor may recur if it is incompletely (surgically) removed

How is Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix Treated?

Treatment measures for Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix may include the following:

• If there are no symptoms, then the healthcare provider may advise a ‘wait and watch’ approach, following the diagnosis of a Müllerian papilloma
• Surgical intervention with complete excision can result in a complete cure
• Post-operative care is important: Minimum activity level is to be ensured until the surgical wound heals
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

How can Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix be Prevented?

• Current medical research has not established a method of preventing Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix
• Medical screening at regular intervals with scans and physical examinations are advised

What is the Prognosis of Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix is excellent with surgical intervention and complete removal, since it is a benign tumor.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Müllerian Papilloma of Uterine Cervix:

The following DoveMed website links are useful resources for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/womens-health/

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/