Lump or Mass of Breast

Overview

A breast lump is a mass, growth, or swelling in the breast that feels different from surrounding tissue. While finding a breast lump can be frightening, most breast lumps (80-85%) are benign (non-cancerous). However, any new lump should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare provider to determine its nature and appropriate management.

Benign (Non-Cancerous) Causes

  • Fibrocystic changes: Common lumpy, rope-like breast tissue
  • Fibroadenoma: Solid, smooth, firm, movable lump in young women
  • Breast cysts: Fluid-filled sacs, can be tender
  • Lipoma: Fatty lump, soft and movable
  • Intraductal papilloma: Small growth in milk duct
  • Fat necrosis: Damaged fatty tissue from injury
  • Milk cyst (galactocele): During or after breastfeeding
  • Abscess: Infected fluid collection
  • Phyllodes tumor: Usually benign but fast-growing
  • Hormonal changes: Lumps that vary with menstrual cycle

Malignant (Cancerous) Types

  • Invasive ductal carcinoma: Most common breast cancer
  • Invasive lobular carcinoma: Second most common
  • Inflammatory breast cancer: Rare, aggressive type
  • Paget's disease: Affects nipple and areola
  • Male breast cancer: Rare but possible

Characteristics to Note

Concerning Features

  • Hard, irregular shape
  • Fixed (doesn't move)
  • Painless
  • Skin changes over lump (dimpling, puckering)
  • Nipple discharge (especially bloody)
  • Nipple retraction
  • Change in breast size or shape
  • Swollen lymph nodes in armpit
  • Persistent and doesn't change with menstrual cycle

Less Concerning Features

  • Soft, smooth, round
  • Mobile (moves easily)
  • Painful or tender
  • Changes with menstrual cycle
  • In both breasts
  • Young age (under 30)

Diagnostic Tests

  • Clinical breast exam: Physical examination by healthcare provider
  • Mammography: X-ray of breast tissue
  • Ultrasound: Sound waves to image lump
  • MRI: Detailed imaging for high-risk patients
  • Fine needle aspiration: Sample cells with thin needle
  • Core needle biopsy: Tissue sample for diagnosis
  • Surgical biopsy: Remove all or part of lump
  • Genetic testing: For hereditary cancer risk

Treatment Depends on Diagnosis

  • Observation: Monitor benign lumps
  • Aspiration: Drain fluid from cysts
  • Surgical removal: For some benign tumors or cancer
  • Cancer treatment: Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy
  • Antibiotics: For breast infections

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Contact your healthcare provider promptly for:

  • Any new breast lump or mass
  • Lump that persists after your next period
  • Change in size or feel of existing lump
  • Bloody nipple discharge
  • Skin changes on breast
  • Inverted nipple (if new)
  • One breast looks different from the other
  • Lump in armpit
  • Breast pain with lump

Breast Self-Awareness

  • Know what's normal for your breasts
  • Report changes promptly
  • Follow screening guidelines for your age/risk
  • Annual clinical breast exams
  • Mammograms as recommended
  • Consider genetic counseling if family history

Remember: Early detection saves lives. Don't delay seeking evaluation for any breast changes.