BENIGN BREAST DISEASE

Breast lumps that are not cancer are called benign. They are usually found by women during their own breast self exam. These lumps take many forms and may be painful or painless, contain fluid and others are firm and solid. The treatment depends on the growth and the cause.

Fluid filled tumors are more common and are also painful. They are called cysts. Cysts are caused by fibrocystic changes and usually occur in pre-menopausal women. Cysts may change size during the menstrual cycle as a response to changing levels of hormones. An ultrasound test may be needed. This test can tell if a lump is filled with fluid or solid. Cysts are usually drained with a needle for quick relief of pain and to prevent infection or abscess.

When a pocket of fluid, especially milk, is blocked from normal flow through the breast, an infection can develop. These cysts can be drained through the skin of the breast. If they are infected, antibiotics will be prescribed. Some scarring of the breast may occur.

Solid, firm masses are usually painless. Most are called fibromas because of the amount of firm, fibrous cells in them. A mammogram and tissue sample are necessary to tell the difference between this harmless breast lump and breast cancer. Ultrasound can usually differentiate a solid mass from a cyst. The provider may also aspirate some fluid to make a definite diagnosis.

There is other breast tissue, such as milk ducts or fatty tissue, that may form rare, harmless, lumps that are easily treated, but that must be differentiated from cancer. Contact your healthcare provider for an appointment within a few days to evaluate any changes in breast tissue.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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