While it is important that you pay attention to breast lumps, you don't have to panic if you find one. Most breast lumps are not cancerous. In fact, the Federal Citizen Information Center estimates that even 80 percent of the breast lumps that need a biopsy turn out to be benign. You might discover a solitary breast lump, or you may notice that your breasts generally feel lumpy. See your doctor if you find a lump or notice other changes in your breasts---that is the only way to determine if a breast lump is cause for concern.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer can form a solid tumor that feels like a lump. A breast cancer lump does not usually cause pain. It will often feel hard and immovable. If a clinical exam or an imaging test determines that a breast lump has suspicious characteristics, a biopsy is necessary to determine whether or not the lump is indeed breast cancer. The recommended treatment for breast cancer will depend upon the size of the tumor and its other characteristics.
Fibroadenoma
A fibroadenoma is also a solid tumor, but it is benign. Like a breast cancer lump, it typically feels hard and painless. Unlike a breast cancer lump, a fibroadenoma can be moved under the skin. Fibroadenomas can occur at any age, but they are more common in younger women. According to the American Cancer Society, a fibroadenoma is the most likely diagnosis for a single breast lump in a woman under 30. African-American women are twice as likely as other American women to develop fibroadenomas. A fibroadenoma is usually surgically removed, especially if it is growing.
Cyst
A cyst is not a solid mass---it is a benign lump that is filled with fluid. An ultrasound can determine if a lump is solid or fluid-filled. Just prior to a woman's menstrual period, a cyst might enlarge and cause tenderness. A doctor may recommend aspirating the cyst, or observation may be the only treatment. Cysts are very common in women between the ages of 35 and 50, and their presence does not indicate an increased risk of breast cancer.
Fat Necrosis
Scar tissue that feels like a lump can develop after an injury to the fat tissue in the breast. This type of benign breast lump is called a fat necrosis and it is most common in large-breasted, obese women. Fat necrosis and cancer can seem similar in an exam or on an image. A biopsy is necessary to rule out cancer.
Intraductal Papilloma
An intraductal papilloma is a benign tumor located inside a milk duct of the breast. A solitary intraductal papilloma that can be felt as a lump usually occurs in the nipple area. It is a common cause of watery or bloody nipple discharge. The typical treatment for this type of breast lump is to surgically remove the tumor and the affected milk duct.
