Breast Lumps
Breast lumps are growths or masses that form in the breast tissue. They can vary in size, texture, and shape, and may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Common causes of breast lumps include cysts, fibroadenomas, infections, and breast cancer. It's important to have any new or unusual lumps evaluated by a healthcare provider to determine their nature and appropriate treatment.
Breast lumps can be classified as benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Here's a brief overview of both types:
Benign Breast Lumps
Benign breast lumps are non-cancerous growths in the breast tissue. They are usually not life-threatening and often do not spread to other parts of the body. Common types include:
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Fibroadenomas:
- Solid, smooth, and rubbery lumps that move easily under the skin.
- Common in young women.
- Typically painless and harmless.
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Cysts:
- Fluid-filled sacs that can be tender and fluctuate with the menstrual cycle.
- Common in women aged 35-50.
- Often disappear without treatment.
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Fibrocystic Changes:
- A condition where the breast feels lumpy or rope-like.
- Associated with hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle.
- Can cause discomfort but is not harmful.
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Intraductal Papillomas:
- Small, wart-like growths in the milk ducts near the nipple.
- May cause nipple discharge.
- Usually benign but can sometimes contain precancerous cells.
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Lipomas:
- Soft, fatty lumps that are generally painless.
- Typically slow-growing and non-cancerous.
Malignant Breast Lumps
Malignant breast lumps are cancerous growths that can invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body. Types of breast cancer include:
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Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS):
- Non-invasive cancer confined to the milk ducts.
- Considered an early form of breast cancer.
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Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC):
- Begins in the milk ducts and invades surrounding tissue.
- The most common type of breast cancer.
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Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC):
- Begins in the milk-producing lobules and spreads to surrounding tissues.
- Less common than IDC.
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Inflammatory Breast Cancer:
- A rare and aggressive form of breast cancer.
- Causes the breast to become red, swollen, and warm.
Category:Breast Lumps