gynecology and obstetrics
Breast Masses (Breast Lumps)
Etiology of Breast Masses
All breast masses must be evaluated to exclude Breast Cancer , but the majority are nonmalignant. The most common causes include Fibrocystic changes Fibroadenomas Fibrocystic changes(previously, fibrocystic breast disease) refers to nonproliferative lesions, including breast cysts and nondescript masses (usually in the upper outer part of the breast); these findings may occur in isolation or together. Breasts have a nodular and dense texture and are frequently tender when palpated. The breasts may feel heavy and uncomfortable. Women may feel a burning pain in the breasts. Fibrocystic changes are the cause of the most commonly reported breast symptoms. Symptoms tend to subside after menopause. Repeated stimulation byestrogenandprogesteronemay contribute to the development of fibrocystic changes, which are more common among women who had early menarche, who had their first live birth at age>30, or who are nulliparous. Fibrocystic changes are not associated with increased risk of cancer. are associated with a slightly increased risk of breast cancer ( Etiology reference ). ( Mastitis ) cause pain, erythema, and swelling; an abscess can produce a discrete mass. Puerperal mastitis, usually due to Galactoceleis a round, easily movable milk-filled cyst that usually occurs up to 6 to 10 months after lactation stops. Such cysts rarely become infected. Cancersof various types can manifest as a mass. 1.Nassar A, Visscher DW, Degnim AC, et al: Complex fibroadenoma and breast cancer risk: a Mayo Clinic Benign Breast Disease Cohort Study.Breast Cancer Res Treat153(2):397-405, 2015. doi:10.1007/s10549-015-3535-8 