Breast lump evaluation is important because of the potential for cancer; however, most masses felt in the breast are noncancerous. It is noteworthy that the older the patient, the higher the malignant potential. Consult a doctor if you find any suspicious lumps in your breast. Diagnosis of breast disease is tricky even for a doctor, though.
Breast Cancer
If a woman feels a lump, breast cancer is usually the first thing that enters her mind. Normally it is hard to tell if a mass is malignant, but there are specific signs that point toward possible cancer. Bloody discharge from the nipple, redness and pitting of the skin over the breast, inversion of the nipple, and change in the size or shape of the breast are signs of cancer. Imaging or biopsy can help make a definitive diagnosis.
Breast Cysts
Cysts are sacs filled with fluid within the breast. They can occur in groups or one at a time and usually don't occur after menopause. The lump's size and tenderness tend to increase right before menstruation. The lump is typically movable and you can feel the distinct edges separating it from surrounding tissue.
Fibroadenoma
Fibroadenoma are solid growths in the breast with no potential to become malignant. They are usually firm, rubbery, smooth and painless with distinct borders where surrounding tissue begins. They are also easily moved.
Fibrocystic Breasts
Tissues in fibrocystic breasts changes to a more nodular, bumpy texture. These cysts are common, and symptoms include changing sizes of lumps and nonblood nipple discharge. Changes occur in both breasts, and can bring pain that usually increases from midcycle until right before menstruation.
Lipoma
Limpoma are fat-based tumors that grow slowly and occur all over the body, including the breast. They are usually located between the skin and underlying muscle and move easily with light finger pressure.
Mastitis
Mastitis is an infection of the breast tissue with resulting inflammation of the tissue involved. It most commonly occurs in breast-feeding women, and contrary to popular notion, is not a reason to stop breast feeding.
Fat Necrosis
Fat necrosis occurs after a traumatic injury to the chest. Fatty tissue that normally exists in the breast is damaged and breaks down, forming a lump in the breast.
Hamartoma
A nodule composed of fat, connective tissue and glandular tissue, a hamartoma is not cancerous and is asymptomatic with the only noticeable effect being its size. Hamartoma formation usually occurs in women over 35.
References
- "Sabiston Textbook of Surgery, 18th Edition;" Townsend; 2007
- Mayo Clinic: Breast Lumps
- Annals of Family Medicine. "Characterizing Breast Symptoms in Family Practice." Eberl M, Phillips R, Lamberts H, Okkes I, Maboney M. Volume 6, Issue 6 (November 2008)
