FIBROCYSTIC BREAST CHANGES

 Basic information

description

Fibrocystic changes are the most common cause of breast lumps in women. Over 50% of women have these changes at some point in their lives. The changes are not cancerous and are not a threat to health. They can affect females from puberty to around age 50.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• The changes may affect one or both breasts. Single lumps may occur, but multiple lumps are common.
• Lumps may offer resistance when pressed with fingertips and they may feel tender. They often enlarge before menstrual periods and shrink afterward.
• Breasts may be swollen and engorged.
• Mild to severe breast pain. It may be constant, on or off, irregular, or occur just before menstrual periods.
• Some women develop cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that feel smooth and firm.
• Lumps come in different sizes. When the lumps are relatively large and near the surface, they can be moved freely within the breast.

causes

The cause is unclear. Ovarian hormones appear to play a role. Fibrocystic changes may be caused by abnormal hormone levels or by an increased response of breast tissue to normal hormone levels.

risk increases with

Women who have not had children, have irregular menstrual cycles, or have a family history of fibrocystic breast changes or breast cancer. Studies on other risk factors are ongoing.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Specific preventive measures are unknown. It may help to eat a low-fat diet and avoid smoking.

expected outcomes

Women with fibrocystic breast changes continue to have breast lumps that appear and dissolve. Some remain permanently. Treatment may help relieve symptoms. The condition often disappears after menopause (unless estrogen-replacement therapy is used).

possible complications

Only about 5% of fibrocystic breast changes have atypical cells that are a risk factor for developing cancer.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Your health care provider will do a breast exam and examine the underarm area. Medical tests may include mammogram, ultrasound, and surgical diagnostic procedures, such as cyst aspiration.
• The breast changes may get better without treatment. If symptoms continue, diet changes may help and drug therapy may be an option. Keep a pain diary for 2 to 3 months to determine the pattern of the pain.
• Applying heat in some form or cold compresses to the breasts may help the discomfort.
• Wear a well-fitting, supportive bra (day and night).
• Surgery may sometimes be done to remove a lump.
• Stop smoking. Find a way to quit that works for you.
• Examine your breasts carefully each month. Report new lumps or any changes in lumps that have been diagnosed previously.
• Get routine mammogram studies as advised.
• Visit your health care provider at least every year for a breast exam. If you have a family history of cancer, more frequent follow-up visits may be recommended.
• Some cysts may be aspirated (removing the fluid). This is done in a health care provider's office. Removing the fluid should cause the lump to disappear. If the lump does not disappear, other testing is done.
• To learn more: Do an Internet search or visit a library.

medications

• Birth control pills may be prescribed to help control hormone levels. For more severe symptoms, danazol or bromocriptine may be prescribed.
• Use nonprescription pain remedies for the pain.
• Some women take vitamin A, vitamin B-6, vitamin E, or evening primrose oil to relieve symptoms. Ask your health care provider about these supplements.

activity

No limits. A regular exercise program is usually recommended. Avoid activities that cause breast discomfort.

diet

• Avoiding beverages that contain caffeine (coffee, tea, and some soft drinks) may help relieve symptoms.
• Eat a low-fat diet. Reducing salt and sugar may help.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has undiagnosed lumps in the breast.
• You detect a change in a lump, or new lumps appear.

Special Notes: