How to Evaluate a Breast Lump?
How to Evaluate a Breast Lump?
Breast lumps
Breast lump is a mass, swelling, bulge, or bump in the breast that feel different from the remaining breast tissue when palpated or examined. Breast lumps can be cancerous or noncancerous. If a lump is detected, it should be evaluated as soon as possible.
Breast lumps are common in women of reproductive age. Breast lumps are of different based on the underlying cause, which include breast infection (abscess or mastitis), fibroadenoma (abnormal growth of the glandular tissue in the breast), breast cyst (fluid-filled sac inside the breast), and breast cancer (abnormal growth of breast cells).
Causes of breast lumps:
- Abscess or infection
- Adenoma
- Cysts
- Lipoma
- Breast cancer
Diagnosis of breast lumps:
Diagnosis of a breast lump is performed by a triple-assessment approach.
- Clinical examination: During physical examination, change in the color, shape, or contour of breast, changes in nipple, and lumps will be noticed.
- Breast imaging technique: A mammogram, ultrasound or MRI is used to better define the clinical abnormality or lump.
- Biopsy: Imaging guided core biopsy is used to obtain a sample of the breast lump.
FAQs
- Does breast lump mean cancer?
No, not all breast lumps are cancerous. Benign breast conditions can also cause lumps. Therefore, thorough evaluation is necessary to know the exact cause.
2. What kind of breast lump should I worry about?
If the lumps are harder and are different from the rest of the breast or the other breast, see a doctor right away.
3. What should I do if I find a lump in my breast?
If you find a breast lump, don’t panic and consult a doctor immediately. It is important to get any lump or change in breast checked by a doctor for evaluation.