Breast mass

Breast mass refers to a localized swelling, lump, or bump in the breast that feels different from the surrounding tissue. Breast masses can vary in size, shape, and consistency and can occur in one or both breasts. They are a common reason for women to seek medical attention due to the concern for breast cancer. However, it is important to note that breast masses can result from a wide range of conditions, many of which are benign (non-cancerous).

Causes

Breast masses can be caused by several conditions, including:

• Fibrocystic breast changes: Characterized by lumpiness or thickening of the breast tissue, often related to hormonal changes.
• Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can develop in the breast tissue.
• Fibroadenomas: Non-cancerous solid tumors that are most common in young women.
• Infections: Such as mastitis, which is an infection of the breast tissue often associated with breastfeeding.
• Intraductal papillomas: Small, wart-like growths in the ducts of the breast.
• Breast cancer: Malignant tumors that can develop from various cells in the breast.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a breast mass can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

• A palpable lump in the breast with or without pain
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast
• Skin changes on the breast, such as dimpling, puckering, or redness
• Nipple discharge, which may be clear, bloody, or another color
• Changes in the appearance of the nipple, such as becoming inverted

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a breast mass typically involves a combination of:

• Clinical breast exam: A physical examination of the breasts by a healthcare provider.
• Mammography: An X-ray of the breast used to detect abnormalities.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to produce images of the breast tissue, helpful in distinguishing between solid masses and cysts.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Provides detailed images of the breast and is particularly useful in certain cases, such as for women with dense breast tissue.
• Biopsy: The removal of a small sample of breast tissue for laboratory analysis to determine if a mass is benign or malignant.

Treatment

The treatment for a breast mass depends on the underlying cause:

• Benign conditions may not require treatment but could be monitored for changes.
• Infections are typically treated with antibiotics.
• Non-cancerous tumors like fibroadenomas may be surgically removed if they cause discomfort or grow.
• Breast cancer treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy, depending on the type and stage of cancer.

Prevention

While not all breast masses can be prevented, regular breast self-exams and routine clinical breast exams and mammograms can help detect abnormalities early when they are most treatable.

See also

• Breast self-examination
• Breast biopsy
• Mastectomy
• Lumpectomy

External links

• American Cancer Society: Breast Cancer
• CDC: Breast Cancer