Fibrocystic breast changes

Fibrocystic breast changes
Other namesFibrocystic change, fibrocystic breast disease,[1] fibrocystic breast condition
Benign fibrous breast growths (highlighted in yellow).
SpecialtyGynaecology
SymptomsBreast pain, breast cysts, breast masses[2]
Usual onset30 to 50 years old[1]
Risk factorsEarly age at first menstrual period, having children late or not having children[2]
Diagnostic methodPeriodic examination, possibly medical imaging or breast biopsy[1]
Differential diagnosisBreast cancer[1]
TreatmentEducation about the condition, a well fitting bra, pain medication[1]
PrognosisGood[1]
FrequencyUp to 60% of women[3]

Fibrocystic breast changes is a condition of the breasts where there may be pain, breast cysts, and breast masses.[1] The breasts may be described as "lumpy" or "doughy".[3] Symptoms may worsen during certain parts of the menstrual cycle due to hormonal stimulation.[1] These are normal breast changes, not associated with cancer.[2]

Risk factors include an early age at first menstrual period and either having children at a late age or not at all.[2] It is not a disease but represents normal breast changes.[3] Diagnosis involves ruling out breast cancer.[1] Fibrocystic changes include fibroadenomas, fibrosis,papillomas of the breast,[1] and apocrine-type metaplasia.[4]

Management may involve education about the condition, using a well fitting bra, and pain medication, if needed.[1] Occasionally danazol or tamoxifen may be used for pain.[1] It is estimated that up to 60% of women are affected,[3] most commonly between the ages of 30 and 50 years.[1]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Ferri FF (2018). Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2019: 5 Books in 1. Elsevier Health Sciences. p. 548. ISBN 9780323550765.
  2. ^ a b c d "Breast Masses (Breast Lumps)". Merck Manuals Professional Edition. Retrieved 3 November 2018.
  3. ^ a b c d Santen RJ, Mansel R (21 July 2005). "Benign breast disorders". The New England Journal of Medicine. 353 (3): 275–85. doi:10.1056/NEJMra035692. PMID 16034013. S2CID 438770.
  4. ^ Carlos C. Diez Freire, M.D., Shahla Masood, M.D. "Apocrine metaplasia". Pathology Outlines.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link) Last author update: 28 May 2020.