Breast mass

Breast mass
Other namesBreast lump, breast tumor
A breast lump associated with an inverted nipple and skin dimpling. Underlying cause was breast cancer.
SpecialtyGynecology
SymptomsAn area of the breast that feel different than the surrounding tissue[1]
CausesFibrocystic change, fibroadenomas, breast infection, galactoceles, breast cancer[1]
Diagnostic methodExamination, medical imaging, tissue biopsy[2]
TreatmentDepends on the underlying cause[1]
FrequencyCommon[2]

A breast mass, also known as a breast lump, is a localized swelling that feels different from the surrounding tissue.[1] Breast pain, nipple discharge, or skin changes may be present.[1] Concerning findings include masses that are hard, do not move easily, are of an irregular shape, or are firmly attached to surrounding tissue.[2]

Causes include fibrocystic change, fibroadenomas, breast infection, galactoceles, and breast cancer.[1] Breast cancer makes up about 10% of breast masses.[1] Diagnosis is typically by examination, medical imaging, and tissue biopsy.[2] Tissue biopsy is often by fine needle aspiration biopsy.[3] Repeated examination may be required.[2]

Treatment depends on the underlying cause.[1] It may vary from simple pain medication to surgical removal.[1] Some causes may resolve without treatment.[4] Breast masses are relatively common.[2] It is the most common breast complaint with the women's concern generally being that of cancer.[5][6]

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i "Breast Masses (Breast Lumps)". Merck Manuals Professional Edition. Retrieved 29 October 2018.
  2. ^ a b c d e f Klein, S (1 May 2005). "Evaluation of palpable breast masses". American Family Physician. 71 (9): 1731–8. PMID 15887452.
  3. ^ Yu, YH; Wei, W; Liu, JL (25 January 2012). "Diagnostic value of fine-needle aspiration biopsy for breast mass: a systematic review and meta-analysis". BMC Cancer. 12: 41. doi:10.1186/1471-2407-12-41. PMC 3283452. PMID 22277164.
  4. ^ "Breast lumps". NHS. 2017-10-20. Retrieved 29 October 2018.
  5. ^ Hindle, William H. (2012). Breast Care: A Clinical Guidebook for Women's Primary Health Care Providers. Springer Science & Business Media. p. 12. ISBN 9781461221449.
  6. ^ Salzman, B; Fleegle, S; Tully, AS (15 August 2012). "Common breast problems". American Family Physician. 86 (4): 343–9. PMID 22963023.