Atypical ductal hyperplasia

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Atypical ductal hyperplasia - low mag

Atypical ductal hyperplasia - high mag

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Atypical ductal hyperplasia with immunotyping

Atypical Ductal Hyperplasia (ADH) is a condition characterized by the abnormal proliferation of cells within the milk ducts of the breast. It is considered a precancerous condition, meaning that while it is not cancer, it has the potential to develop into a more serious form of breast cancer if left untreated. ADH is often discovered during a mammogram as part of routine breast cancer screening or following an investigation of a breast lump.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of ADH is typically made through a combination of imaging tests and a biopsy. Imaging tests, such as a mammogram or ultrasound, can identify areas of abnormal tissue in the breast. However, a definitive diagnosis requires a biopsy, where a small sample of breast tissue is removed and examined under a microscope by a pathologist. The presence of atypical cells that have not spread outside the ducts characterizes ADH.

Risk Factors

Several risk factors are associated with the development of ADH, including age, family history of breast cancer, personal history of breast lesions, and certain genetic mutations. Women with ADH have an increased risk of developing breast cancer in the future, making it important to identify and monitor this condition early.

Treatment and Management

The treatment for ADH often involves surgical removal of the affected tissue, typically through a procedure known as a lumpectomy. In some cases, particularly when ADH is found alongside other high-risk conditions, more extensive surgery may be recommended. Following surgery, patients are usually advised to undergo regular breast cancer screening to monitor for the development of invasive cancer.

Prognosis

While ADH itself is not cancer, it indicates an increased risk of developing breast cancer in the future. With appropriate treatment and monitoring, the prognosis for individuals with ADH is generally good. Early detection and management of ADH are crucial for preventing the progression to more serious forms of breast cancer.

See Also

• Breast cancer
• Mammography
• Lumpectomy
• Breast biopsy