Patient's question:
Patient Age: 17Detailed Condition and Purpose of Consultation: My friend has a lump in her breast, which feels hard. I want to consult about what it could be.
Duration of Current Illness: 1 year
Current General Condition: Similar to before
Medical History: 1 year
Previous Diagnoses and Treatment History and Effects: None
Ancillary Examinations: None
Doctor's answer:
There are generally two possible causes for lumps in the breast:1. Fibrocystic breast changes: This condition usually does not require treatment. The most prominent feature is its cyclical nature, often occurring or worsening before menstruation, with pain significantlying or disappearing after the menstrual period. It can occur in all age groups but is most common in women aged 25–45. The lumps are often multiple, appearing on one side or both sides, and may be confined to one part of the breast or scattered throughout. The lumps are nodular, of varying sizes, firm yet cystic in texture, and movable without attachment to the skin or deeper tissues. Breast pain is related to emotional state and physical exertion.
2. Fibroadenoma: This is the most common benign tumor in adolescent women. It is highly suspicious if it recurs multiple times, as it has a higher risk of malignancy. Clinically, it typically presents with the following characteristics:
- Most common in women aged 15–25 with active sexual function.
- Most frequently located in the outer upper quadrant of the breast, with about 75% being solitary and the rest multiple.
- The most distinctive feature is that patients often have no symptoms, with the lump being discovered accidentally or during bathing. It is movable, smooth-bordered, well-defined, and relatively firm, resembling the size of a peanut or a date seed.
- Generally, there is no axillary lymphadenopathy or nipple discharge, and the size of the lump is unaffected by the menstrual cycle.
If the lump can be moved back and forth by hand and causes no pain, it is likely a fibroadenoma. It is recommended to have an ultrasound examination at the hospital, as most cases are benign. There is no need to worry excessively.