Breast diseases · Benign breast diseases

Benign Breast Masses

Benign diseases of the breast are more common than breast cancer.

Some of the signs and symptoms of benign breast diseases and breast cancer are shared. For this reason, care must be taken in the differential diagnosis.

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Frequently asked questions

Your questions, answered.

The most common questions about Benign Breast Masses, with short answers.

What are benign breast masses?

Benign breast diseases include fibroadenoma, breast cysts, intraductal papilloma, phyllodes tumor, idiopathic granulomatous mastitis, breast infections, nipple discharge and breast pain (mastodynia).

Are benign breast diseases more common than breast cancer?

Yes. Benign breast diseases are more common than breast cancer.

How can a benign breast mass be told apart from breast cancer?

Some signs and findings of benign diseases and breast cancer overlap, so care is needed in differential diagnosis. The definitive diagnosis is made with examination, ultrasound, mammography and, when needed, biopsy.

How is a breast lump evaluated with ultrasound?

A lump can be a fluid-filled sac (cyst) or a solid mass. The best way to tell the two apart is to examine the mass with ultrasound.

What is a fibroadenoma and is it treated?

A fibroadenoma is a benign breast tumor caused by an excessive response of breast tissue to estrogen. Ultrasound follow-up is essential; in certain cases it is removed surgically, or suitable masses can be treated non-surgically with cryoablation.

Does a breast cyst need treatment?

Benign cysts do not need to be drained; if they cause complaints and are larger than 3 cm they are drained with a fine needle. If a cyst refills after three drainages, it is removed surgically.

Should I be examined if I find a benign-looking breast lump?

Yes. Most breast lumps are benign, but every case must be evaluated clinically.